Drilon: Duterte can realign budget for COVID-19 response sans Bayanihan 2

Senator Franklin Drilon asserted that President Duterte can still realign the Executive department's budget to fund COVID-19 response programs even after the expiration of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

This is possible due to existing constitutional and legal provisions that grant the President flexibility in reallocating funds during crises.

Drilon cited specific articles in the Constitution and laws like the Revised Administrative Code and the 2020 General Appropriations Act as bases for such actions.

He expressed regret that Congress failed to pass the proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, emphasizing that this should not hinder the President's ability to continue essential relief efforts.

The President can utilize these powers to augment funds for programs such as TUPAD, AICS, and operational budgets for various government agencies including the DOH, PGH, and DSWD.

While direct emergency subsidy to households may no longer be mandated, Drilon believes the President can and should still provide necessary relief through other means.