Speaker Martin Romualdez on Thursday committed that the House of Representatives will pass the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024 on the third and final reading next week before Congress goes on break.
Romualdez said this was the direct result of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s certification of the budget measure as urgent.
“We appreciate President Marcos’ leadership and his prioritization of the national budget. His decision to certify this crucial legislationas urgent reflects his unwavering commitment to the welfare and progress of our nation,” Romualdez said.
Romualdez also thanked his fellow lawmakers who have been working tirelessly to deliberate on and refine the budget bill “to ensure that it addresses the pressing needs of our country and its people.”
“We will continue to uphold the principles of accountability,inclusivity, and efficiency throughout the budget deliberations,” he said.
“The House of Representatives stands united in its commitment to passthe 2024 national budget and support the government’s initiativesaimed at promoting economic growth, social development, and the well-being of every Filipino,” Romualdez.
With the President’s certification, the House is now allowed to pass the budget bill on second and third reading on the same day.
Upon its approval, the House will forward the appropriations bill to the Senate.
Congress will be in recess from September 30 to November 5.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said they are on track in working toward the passage of the priority measures of the administration.
Out of the 20 priority bills identified during the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council meeting, he said the Senate has already passed three measures on third reading: Trabaho Para Sa Bayan Act, LGU Income Classification Act, and the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act.
“We are in full support of the administration’s goals, especially in crafting laws to generate employment and uplift the quality of life of every Filipino,” Villanueva added.