June 2nd, 2021
I thank the House leadership and my colleagues for the quick approval of this vital measure. Our current economic conditions, the pressing need for household income support, and the enduring strength of our fiscal fundamentals all point to the need and the ability to fund a third stimulus package focusing on directly assisting Filipino families.
I am particularly proud of our introduction of innovative approaches to help our people. The use of the Universal Basic Income strategy will be the model for other future income redistribution and transfer schemes. It is effective, quick, and removes the politics out of social assistance.
Moving forward, it is the Senate’s turn to come up with its own proposal to extend a lifeline to Filipino households.
I also appeal to the Executive to consider even the most essential parts of this proposal. We can certainly fund at least part of these items.
In the meantime, the House remains committed to President Duterte’s program of economic recovery and to necessary fiscal and economic reforms. But, whenever necessary, we will go above and beyond what is proposed to meet what is actually needed by our people.