Extended validity of 2019 budget gets Senate panel’s nod

MANILA, Philippines – Eighteen senators have signed a committee report, extending the validity of this year’s budget for maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) and capital outlays (CO) until December 31, 2020.

The report on Senate Joint Resolution No. 9 was prepared and transmitted for plenary discussions by the committee on finance headed by  Senator  Sonny Angara.

Because of the late passage of the 2019 budget and election ban, the resolution noted that there have been delays in the implementation of infrastructure projects and basic social services.

“There are appropriations that have not been released and allotment issued that have not been obligated, which shall automatically lapse depriving the people and the country of the much-needed MOOE and CO to fund priority projects, financial assistance program, aid, and relief activities as well as for the maintenance, construction/repair, and rehabilitation of schools, hospitals, roads, bridges and other essential facilities of the national government;”   it further said.

Under Republic Act No. 11260 or the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for 2019, the validity of MOOE and CO has been limited to one year only.

The resolution also cited an executive order which requires that all appropriations should be obligated by December 31, 2019.

The same directive, however, allows the implementation of and payment for MOOE, as well as other CO, and infrastructure projects to extend until June 30, 2020, and December 31, 2020, respectively;

“It is clearly imperative that Section 65 of the General Provisions of Republic Act No. 11260 should be amended such that the validity of the MOOE and CO appropriations are extended for another fiscal year for the benefit of the people and for the welfare of the nation,” the resolution said.

The measure likewise seeks to extend the obligation, delivery, inspection, acceptance, and payment of obligations for MOOE and CO until December 31, 2020.

On Monday, the House of Representatives already approved its counterpart measure. /gag

READ: Reso extending validity of portions of 2019 budget gets House nod