DBM called out over delays in budget release

MANILA, Philippines —  Speaker Faustino Dy III called out on Wednesday the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) over delays in fund releases, warning that slow disbursement renders even approved budgets meaningless and delays urgently needed services for Filipinos.

In his closing speech before the House adjourned for the Lenten break, Dy urged the DBM to move faster and ensure timely implementation of government programs.

“To our friends in DBM, put your work in order. Speed up your actions,” Dy said. “Do your duties to put in order and implement the programs that will address the present needs of our fellow Filipinos in different regions.”

‘Lies erode public trust’

Even small lies can erode public trust, Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo reminded congressmen on Wednesday as he celebrated mass at the House of Representatives.

According to CBCPNews, Bishop Bagaforo reminded lawmakers they should uphold honesty and integrity, and that God’s faithfulness and truth should show in their work every day.

3 new deputy speakers

Three new deputy speakers were elected during the plenary session of the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

The new House leaders are Pangasinan Rep. Rachel Arenas, Cebu Rep. Duke Frasco and Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez.

Deputy speakers are the second highest-ranking officials of the House of Representatives, presiding over plenary proceedings in the absence of the Speaker. They also monitor, coordinate and facilitate action on measures filed, requests and other concerns of House members representing their respective constituencies.

South Cotabato Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez is presently the senior deputy speaker. The other deputy speakers are Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin, Lanao del Sur Rep. Yasser Alonto Balintong, La Union Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V, Zambales Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, Ilocos Sur Rep. Kristine Singson-Meehan, Antipolo Rep. Ronaldo Puno, Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron, TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza, Misamis Oriental Rep. Yevgeny Emano, and Quezon Rep. Jayjay Suarez. – Delon Porcalla,  Evelyn Macairan