MANILA: In a significant legislative achievement, the House of Representatives has successfully passed all 17 priority bills outlined in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) before Congress adjourned for the Christmas break on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, in his remarks before adjourning the session, announced the completion of this legislative goal, emphasizing that the passage of these bills is crucial for sustaining the country's economic recovery and improving the lives of Filipinos. "It is with great pride and honor to report to this august chamber that we passed all of these 17 SONA priority measures seven months ahead of the President's next SONA in July 2024," Romualdez stated.
Romualdez highlighted the House's recognition of the "urgency and significance" of these issues, praising the efforts of all members in actively participating in legislative discussions, building consensus, and advocating for the passage of these critical measures. He stressed the role of the House in realizing the aspirations of the Filipino people by focusing on strengthening the economy, revitalizing businesses, and expanding services.
Among the notable achievements is the signing into law of the Automatic Income Classification of Local Government Units Act (Republic Act 11964) by President Marcos on October 26. Romualdez pointed out that this law is expected to enhance local autonomy and economic potential. Another significant bill, the Ease of Paying Taxes, designed to attract foreign direct investments and boost the country's investment appeal, has been sent to the President for his signature.
The House has also approved final readings of other priority measures, including amendments to the Fisheries Code, the imposition of an excise tax on single-use plastics, VAT on digital transactions, the Anti-Financial Accounts Scramming Act, the Philippine Immigration Act, and several others focusing on various sectors.
In the session preceding the adjournment, the House completed the approval of the remaining SONA priority measures, six of which are also priorities of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). These include the Department of Water Resources and Services, Tatak-Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, Blue Economy Law, Government Auditing Code, Government Procurement Reform Act, and Amendment of the Cooperative Code. The final bill passed was the proposed Motor Vehicle User's Charge/Road User's Tax.
Romualdez commended the members of the House for their collective efforts and dedication, attributing the high level of legislative performance to unity and cooperation despite differing opinions and beliefs. He concluded by stating that the House's accomplishments reflect their commitment to good governance and serving the interests of the Filipino people.