Instead of pushing for a people’s initiative (PI), Sen. Francis Escudero asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to realign billions of its budget to prepare for the 2025 midterm polls.
Escudero issued the statement as he welcomed the recent decision of Comelec to suspend all PI related actions amid a wave of negative reactions.
He noted that the suspension is definitely a huge step forward and credited President Marcos for playing a role in it.
“I thank PBBM (President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.) for interceding and reining in the Speaker and some House members,” said Escudero.
Comelec chairperson George Garcia cited the need to review their own rules, which they themselves found to be inadequate, following public backlash on the PI.
Under the Constitution, Comelec is empowered to realign its own funds without need for congressional approval.