House ramps up efforts on tackling key issues as 19th Congress nears end
MANILA, Philippines — As the 19th Congress enters its final months, the House of Representatives is ramping up efforts to address key national issues, including rising food and electricity costs and government accountability.
House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said on Sunday that oversight remains a priority as lawmakers investigate issues affecting the public.
“Patuloy nating palalakasin ang kapangyarihan ng oversight ng Kamara para tugisin ang mga iregularidad na gawain na nagpapahirap sa ating mga kababayan,” Gonzales said in a statement on Sunday.
(We will continue to strengthen the oversight power of the House to pursue irregular activities that burden our fellow citizens.)
Probes into key issues
Gonzales highlighted the active role of various House committees in addressing pressing national concerns, such as rising food and electricity costs, and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.
According to Gonzales, the quinta comm, also known as the Murang Pagkain Super Committee, is probing agricultural smuggling, hoarding, and price manipulation — factors identified as major contributors to food inflation.
Article continues after this advertisementMeanwhile, the committees on ways and means and legislative franchises are examining the operations of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, particularly its compliance with obligations, tax payments, and potential overcharging of consumers.
Article continues after this advertisementGonzales also highlighted probes into illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators, money laundering, alleged misuse of confidential funds, and extrajudicial killings during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.
“This probe is not just about accountability: It is about upholding human rights and protecting our national interests,” he emphasized.
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Legislative progress
The House passed 166 laws during the 19th Congress, including nearly all measures prioritized by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.
Pending bills aim to address economic and social challenges, according to Gonzales.
These include House Bill No. 9729, which seeks to improve the productivity of micro, small, and medium enterprises, and proposed amendments to the Universal Health Care Act to enhance benefits and adjust premium contributions.
Lawmakers are also working on a National Flood Control Plan to mitigate the impact of recurring floods in disaster-prone areas, he added.
“We need a comprehensive approach to mitigate flooding and help communities recover more quickly,” Gonzales said.
As the 19th Congress ends on June 30, Gonzales stressed the importance of sustaining momentum in delivering reforms that directly benefit Filipinos.
“Oversight and legislation are two sides of the same coin. Both are essential in ensuring that our people live better lives,” he stated.
