MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang believes there is no need to pressure Congress to pass the proposed 2019 national budget.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the lawmakers themselves know very well how important the passage of the measure is for the overall state of the country.
“I am sure they will be passing that naman. They are all concerned with the services, the infrastructures that will be affected,” Panelo said.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III previously said the Senate targets to pass the measure on the second and third reading before the end of January.
House Minority Floor Leader Rolando Andaya Jr. already filed a petition for mandamus in the Supreme Court (SC) to compel Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno to release the fund for the salary increase of government personnel.
Diokno argued, however, that such a request has no legal basis unless the proposed 2019 General Appropriations Act is passed.
Once enacted, the fourth tranche of wage hike for government workers will be enforced specifically for teachers, soldiers and police.
“If the budget is approved, then the petition becomes moot and academic,” Panelo said.
When asked if Malacañang feels confident that the national budget will be approved, Panelo said, ” “I think so. I was with the Speaker Arroyo. She mentioned that most likely it will pass,” — Marje Pelayo (with reports from Rosalie Coz)
Tags: 2019 national budget, Malacanang