Press Release
May 11, 2006

Pangilinan: On the Senate Legislative Agenda

Senate Majority Leader today expressed that the Senate would hit the ground running and expedite pending measures when session resumes Monday, May 15, 2006.

The Chairman of the Committee on Rules expressed that the 2006 budget will be passed at the soonest possible time. Among other priority measures are the act to amend R.A 8436 or the automation of the Election System as well as the proposals for a National Policy for tourism, both of which are measures proposed by Sen. Richard Gordon. To alleviate shocks felt by the oil price hikes, the Committee on Energy led by Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago will tackle the Act to mandate the use of Biofuels in the Transport Sector, and establishing for this purpose, the Philippine Biofuel program.

We plan to conduct a series of caucus discussions that would focus on particular bills such as the budget, the tourism bill, and automating the election system. It is imperative that the Senate shift to high gear to address the nations pressing concerns. For example, to offset the shocks experienced from constant oil price hikes, we hope to pass the Ethanol bill. We also intend to follow up on Monday what other pending concerns there are for those bills that are in the period of interpellation such as the transfer of Meridian to Communications, Inc., the grant of Franchise rights to Cable Link and Holding Corporation, and an act establishing a Credit Information System, among others, Sen. Kiko clarified.

The Senate will also continue to pursue other areas that require our attention through the conduct of committee hearings in aid of legislation. We remain steadfast in our resolve that as an institution we have a constitutional duty to act as a check and balance on a wayward Executive branch. Notwithstanding, the Senate will also go full force when we resume session to oppose attempts to pursue Charter Change that is beyond the confines of the rule of law and the Constitution, Sen. Kiko reiterated.

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