Romualdez: House leadership committed to approve Bayanihan 2

MANILA, Philippines — House Majority Leader and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez said the leadership of the lower chamber is committed to approving the Bayanihan to Recover as One Bill or the Bayanihan 2 amid talks over the possible holding of a special session to pass the measure.

House of Representatives. INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO

“We are still awaiting the official communication from the Palace. The House leadership under Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano is committed to approving the Bayanihan to Recover as One bill or the Bayanihan II to help President Rodrigo Duterte kickstart our economy and strengthen government’s fight against the spread of COVID-19,” Romualdez said in a statement.

In an interview over Teleradyo, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the executive branch will call for a special session of Congress for the passage of Bayanihan 2.

Romualdez said that the House majority is in “full agreement” on working for the passage of Bayanihan 2.

“We have to support the President to ensure the country and Filipinos’ survival from this pandemic. The members of the House Majority are in full agreement that we all have to work for the passage of the Bayanihan II. We will get the job done,” Romualdez said.

“Since day one of the 18th Congress, we are supportive of President Duterte and his legislative agenda with vitality, energy, and enthusiasm to continue the progress of his administration and to serve the nation,” the House leader added.

Congress adjourned in June without passing the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act, which seeks to extend the Bayanihan to Heal as Once Act that granted Duterte additional powers to address the coronavirus pandemic.

Bayanihan to Heal as Once Act lapsed on June 25.

Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano earlier hinted of a possible special session during the 18th Congress’ sine die adjournment to tackle pending bills up for approval.

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