House passage of P5.768-T 2024 budget next week a sure thing--Romualdez
At A Glance
- House Speaker Martin Romualdez has guaranteed the passage on third and final reading next week of the P5.768-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget for 2024.
House of Representatives (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)
House Speaker Martin Romualdez has guaranteed the passage on third and final reading next week of the P5.768-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget for 2024.
Romualdez says this is a direct result of President Marcos' certification of the budget measure as urgent, underscoring its critical importance and priority.
The certification will enable the House of Representatives to pass the budget bill on second and third reading on the same day, possibly on Wednesday, Sept. 27.
Normally, there is a three-day wait period before a bill passed on second reading can be considered for third reading passage.
The GAB, designated as House Bill (HB) No.8980, is undergoing the period of sponsorship and debates in the House.
Romualdez, leader of the 311-strong legislative chamber, hailed the President for recognizing the importance of a timely budget approval to ensure the continuity of government programs and services.
“We appreciate President Marcos' leadership and his prioritization of the national budget. His decision to certify this crucial legislation as urgent reflects his unwavering commitment to the welfare and progress of our nation,” he said.
Romualdez also expressed his appreciation for the dedication of his House colleagues, who have been working tirelessly on the budget measure since Aug. 10.
“Our esteemed colleagues in the House have been diligently reviewing and fine-tuning the 2024 national budget to ensure that it addresses the pressing needs of our country and its people,” he said.
The Speaker further assured the public that the House is committed to a transparent and thorough budget process that adheres to the highest standards of fiscal responsibility. “We will continue to uphold the principles of accountability, inclusivity, and efficiency throughout the budget deliberations."
Upon the GAB's approval, the House will forward it to the Senate, which is the other legislative chamber n Congress. Congress will be in recess from Sept. 30 to Nov. 5.
The President is expected to sign the 2024 national budget in December.