The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secured the Senate’s approval of its proposed P308.2-billion budget for 2026 during plenary debates on Thursday, reflecting the Senate’s strong support for local governance, peace and order, and public safety.

The DILG, led by Secretary Jonvic Remulla who was present during the budget hearing together with members of the DILG Family, thanked the Senate for its steadfast commitment to strengthening public safety and local governance.

Senator JV Ejercito, Vice Chairperson of Subcommittee F of the Senate Committee on Finance, sponsored the budget and emphasized that the chamber remains fully committed to both the uniformed and civilian personnel of the Department.

From the original P285.4-billion National Expenditure Program (NEP) proposal, the Senate Committee on Finance recommended increasing the DILG budget by nearly 8% or P22.6-billion to P308.2 billion.

The increase aims to support the 283,000 uniformed personnel under DILG, strengthen the operational capabilities of the PNP, and bolster the programs and services of the Department’s attached agencies.

The budget also includes funding for 65 new fire stations and the procurement of 65 additional fire trucks for the BFP, closing the remaining gap and equipping LGUs nationwide with adequate firefighting capability.

In the Senate version of DILG’s 2026 proposed budget, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will receive the largest share at P225.8 billion, followed by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) with P36.2 billion, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) with P31.3 billion.

Other allocations include the DILG Office of the Secretary – P8.5 billion; National Police Commission – P2.5 billion; National Commission on Muslim Filipinos – P1.2 billion; Philippine Public Safety College – P1.2 billion; Local Government Academy – P544 million; Early Childhood Care and Development Center – P357 million; National Youth Commission – P315 million; and Philippine Commission on Women – P205 million.

The Department reaffirms its shared commitment with the Senate in advancing sound governance, strengthening public accountability, and safeguarding peace and order across the nation.