Cayetano says middle class not excluded from COVID-19 aid

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano asserted that the middle class has not been excluded from government aid during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cayetano highlighted indirect assistance such as extensions on bill payments, tax filing deadlines, and moratoriums on loan payments and evictions.

He acknowledged that while aid might be insufficient, President Rodrigo Duterte has announced various measures to support citizens.

President Duterte last week ordered the economic team to look into the possibility of including middle-class households in the government's cash subsidy program.

Cayetano emphasized that Congress is monitoring the situation and believes the President is utilizing all government resources to address the crisis.

He admitted that the delivery of aid has been slow but urged for open communication to expedite the process.

Cayetano appealed for public patience and cooperation, stating that the Enhanced Community Quarantine measures are effective and encouraging continued adherence to them.