House probes shape impactful policies, address issues – solons

House probes shape impactful policies, address issues – lawmakers

By: - Reporter / @jownmanaloINQ
/ 03:38 PM December 30, 2024

House probes shape impactful policies, address issues – lawmakers

The House of Representatives opens its third and final regular session ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 22, 2024. (Gabriel Pabico Lalu/INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — Leaders of the House of Representatives have lauded the achievements of the 19th Congress in strengthening governance and addressing systemic issues through legislative oversight.

House Majority Leader and Zamboanga 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe on Monday said investigations spearheaded by committees not only uncovered critical gaps in enforcement but also led to “shaping impactful policies.”

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“Oversight is essential in ensuring that laws and programs deliver their intended benefits. This Congress has maximized its investigative powers to address systemic issues and propose real solutions,” Dalipe’s statement reads.

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According to House leaders, the Quad committee’s probe into the illegal operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos) revealed links to financial crimes, corruption, and impunity stemming from former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.

“These hearings demonstrated our resolve to protect national interests and uphold human rights,” House Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David Suarez said in a statement.

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House leaders also lauded the Committee on good government and public accountability’s probe into the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education under Vice President Sara Duterte.

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“This inquiry was about upholding transparency and ensuring public funds are used effectively,” House Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr.’s statement reads.

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Gonzales also emphasized that the investigation underscored the importance of stricter oversight mechanisms in government spending.

Meanwhile, the Quinta Comm, also known as the Murang Pagkain Super Committee, zeroed in on agricultural smuggling, hoarding, price manipulation, and profiteering.

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The probe exposed weaknesses in food security programs and highlighted the role of cartels in driving up prices, House leaders said.

“Our investigations into agricultural smuggling, hoarding, and price manipulation are a prime example of oversight in action,” Suarez noted.

“We identified gaps in enforcement and accountability, ensuring that future policies address these issues head-on,” he added.

Leaders also said the investigations reflected the House’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

As the 19th Congress enters its final stretch, lawmakers vowed to sustain the momentum of their oversight work to ensure meaningful reforms that benefit the Filipino people.

“The 19th Congress has demonstrated that through strong oversight, we can ensure that every peso, every law, and every program benefits the Filipino people. This is the kind of leadership and legacy we must continue to uphold,” Suarez said.

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READ: Year of the House: Chamber bares fangs

TAGS: DepEd confidential funds, House probe, OVP confidential funds, pogo

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