Duterte expected to sign Bayanihan 2 next week

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to sign the P165-billion Bayanihan to Recover as One bill by “next week at the latest.”

Malacañang gave the assurance on Monday, adding that it was consulting government agencies on the proposed measure.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the public should expect the bill to be signed into law “as soon as possible.”

“I think they’re aiming that the bill should be signed this week, next week at the latest,” Roque told a press briefing.

Last week, Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado said the proposed measure was being reviewed by the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES). The OES will then submit its recommendation to the President.

The Bayanihan 2 bill provides P140 billion in regular appropriations and P25.5 billion in standby funds.

It seeks to fund various programs to stimulate the economy, improve health care, procure vaccines, fund testing and tracing efforts, and assist industries and workers badly affected by the new coronavirus pandemic.

Julie M. Aurelio

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