HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader and Bagong Henerasyon (BH) party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera on Sunday called for the immediate transmittal to Malacañang of the bill granting President Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte anti-red tape powers during national emergencies like the coronavirus pandemic.
Herrera said the bill will no longer have to go through a bicameral conference committee because the versions passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives are the same.
“Since the Senate and House versions are identical, the bill may be sent directly to Malacañang for President Duterte’s signature,” Herrera said.
Herrera joined Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, House Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez and other House leaders in pushing for the passage of the anti-red tape measure.
Herrera expressed hope the President will sign the bill into law before Christmas
“I’m hopeful the President will sign into law the final enrolled version of the bill before Christmas,” Herrera said.
“This will be the most fitting Christmas gift the Congress and the President can give to the Filipino people,” she added.
The anti-red tape bill would allow Duterte to accelerate regulatory processes for applications and renewals of permits, licenses, clearances, certifications, or authorizations.
It would also give the Chief Executive the power to suspend requirements in securing such government documents and establish a more streamlined regulatory process for government offices.
The bill would also authorize the President to suspend or remove any government official or employee that would violate provisions of the measure.
