Rep. Lagman: Special session not needed for COVID-19 budget

Albay Representative Edcel Lagman believes a special congressional session is not needed to approve a supplemental budget for COVID-19 response, as existing funds can be utilized.

Lagman highlighted the availability of the President's Contingent Fund and the traditional Calamity Fund for pandemic-related expenditures.

The 2020 General Appropriations Act includes a P13-billion Contingent Fund for urgent government activities, including preventing COVID-19 spread and treating patients.

Additionally, a P16-billion National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) is allocated for calamity-affected areas, encompassing COVID-19 response.

However, Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go intends to push for a special session to legislate a supplemental budget for maximum flexibility in combating COVID-19.

Go stated that while current funds might be sufficient, Congress should be prepared for evolving scenarios and potential shortfalls.

He suggested a supplemental budget could ensure flexibility in fund access and allow for increased financial and food assistance to vulnerable sectors and affected workers.