Malacañang thanks House for swift budget approval

Malacañang thanked the House of Representatives for the timely approval of the 2021 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) on third and final reading during a special session.

The Palace expressed hope that the printed copy of the P4.506-trillion budget will be sent to the Senate promptly to allow sufficient time for its deliberation.

President Rodrigo Duterte had repeatedly emphasized the critical need for the budget's swift passage amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to fund government interventions.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar conveyed optimism for a swift and efficient Senate review of the budget, stating it is crucial for the nation's healing, recovery, and rebuilding.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque also thanked the House for passing the budget on time, despite a recent leadership row, and reiterated the hope for its prompt transmittal to the Senate.