Leaders of the House of Representatives urged Congress yesterday to resume the bicameral talks on the 2006 national budget as they remain optimistic that there is still time to find a common ground to agree on and pass the appropriations measure.
House Deputy Speaker for Mindanao Gerry Salapuddin and Rep. Eduardo Zialcita (Lakas, Parañaque City), chairman of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development, said the animosity caused by political bickerings should not hinder the legislative process, especially when government services and programs for the poor and economic development are at stake.
Salapuddin said Congress can still approve the 2006 General Appropriations Act when session resumes in July before the Palace submits the 2007 proposed national budget.
"We appeal to the sense of statesmanship and reason of leaders of the bicameral panel on the budget to continue exploring ways to settle the contentious issues on the appropriations measure. The people, especially the poor, pin their hope on us that we may finally agree on the budget and assure them of the delivery of services and programs envisioned for them," said Salapuddin.
|
