Board tells Congress: Override PNoy’s veto

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Board is appealing before Congress to override President Benigno Aquino III’s veto of the bill that grants a P2,000 across-the-board increase in the monthly pension of Social Security System pensioners.

 In his resolution, PB Member Thadeo Ouano also requested Congress to come up with measures that would increase benefits to pensioners without jeopardizing the system.

Ouano was absent during yesterday’s session, prompting PB Member Arleigh Jay Sitoy to co-sponsor the resolution for its approval.

 Ouano’s resolution said the P2,000 across-the-board increase in the monthly pension is indeed a relief for the SSS pensioners.

 “The said bill like any other bills passed into law are well represented, discussed and deliberated in the plenary prior to its enactment,” Ouano said.

He cited the 1987 Constitution which provides that it is the policy of the State to promote social justice through policies that provide adequate social services.

 Ouano said majority of the pensioners who are poor, old, sickly and dependent on their monthly SSS pension are still hopeful for the bill’s realization.

 He also believed the approved or enacted bill is not unconstitutional for being pro-poor, pro-life and in consonance with constitutional provisions on social justice and human rights that there shall be priority for the needs of the under-privileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women and children.

 Copies of the PB resolution will be furnished to Governor Hilario P. Davide III, Senate President Franklin M. Drilon and Speaker of the House of Representatives Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.  (FREEMAN)