Maharlika bill scheduled for signing July 18 — Zubiri

Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri during the “Kapihan sa Senado” forum on June 29, 2023. Photo from the Office of the Senate President and Senate PRIB

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Wednesday said the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund, along with the Estate Tax Amnesty Extension, will be signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. before his second State of the Nation Address (SONA).

In a text message, Zubiri told INQUIRER.net that the two bills would be signed into law on July 18 — days ahead of Marcos’ scheduled SONA on July 24.

“The Presidential Legislative Liaison Office has scheduled the signing [of] two bills on July 18, which [are] the Maharlika Investment Fund and the Estate Tax Amnesty,” said Zubiri.

Asked to express his opinion on this matter further, Zubiri said, “No further comment.”

Both bills are tagged as urgent. On June 21, the lawmaker said the Maharlika bill is a priority measure, while the Estate Tax Amnesty Extension “is very time-sensitive,” adding that “many people are waiting for these bills” to be signed into law.

Controversies also hounded the Maharlika bill due to its alleged “tampering,” but Zubiri insisted it remain unscathed.

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