Villar on SSS bill: Pres. Aquino’s veto difficult to override

CEBU, Philippines - Senator Cynthia Villar, the principal author of the controversial SSS bill  that was vetoed by President Benigno Aquino III, said it would be difficult to override the veto due to lack of quorum at the House of Representatives and at the Senate.

“Ayokong paasahin ‘yung mga tao. Mahihirapan talaga na ma-override ‘yung veto ng presidente kasi nga walang quorum ‘yung both Houses,” said Villar, who was in Cebu to attend the Children’s Mass of the International Eucharistic Congress.

At least 2/3 or 217 votes from House members and 16 Senate votes are needed to override the veto of the president.

 “Yung quorum sa Senate laging 13 lang kami. Mas lalo na doon sa Congress, mahihirapan tayong makakuha ng 2/3 votes,” said Villar.

 But Villar said she will refile the bill under the new administration.

“I can always refile the bill. I will refile the bill,” said Villar, whose term will end in 2019.

The senator said that SSS pensioners badly need the increase considering that they are only receiving P1,200 and P2,400 per month for those in the service for ten years and 20 years, respectively.

“Sino ba naman ang mabubuhay sa ganyang amount?” said Villar, adding that she does not believe that SSS will go bankrupt if the pension hike is approved.

She added that SSS should increase its collection rate as well as its membership. (FREEMAN)