Senator Win Gatchalian moved to activate a long-dormant anti-corruption tool by initiating the convening of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee (JCOC) on Public Expenditures, aimed at closely monitoring the implementation of the 2026 national budget in an effort to weed out corruption. 

“The reforms that we have initiated in the budget process do not end with the signing of the enabling law. We have to be vigilant and ensure the proper implementation of the programs and projects,” Gatchalian said, stressing the need for strong legislative oversight to safeguard public funds.

Earlier, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance formally requested Senate President Tito Sotto for the activation and convening of the JCOC. Six senators were nominated to join him in the oversight body.

Under Section 113 of Republic Act No. 12314, the Senate and the House of Representatives are mandated to constitute a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee to monitor agency compliance with the requirements and conditions governing the use of public funds. The committee is co-chaired by Gatchalian and House Committee on Appropriations Chair Representative Mika Suansing.