New Leaders Take Charge in House Committees
Nueva Ecija 1st District Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing has been appointed chairperson of the House of Representatives’ committee on appropriations for the 20th Congress. Meanwhile, Davao de Oro 1st District Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora will lead the committee on accounts. These appointments highlight the significant roles these lawmakers will play in shaping the national budget and financial oversight.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos formally moved to elect Suansing and Zamora to their respective committees. This move reflects the trust placed in them amid the critical budget process ahead.
Key Committee Chairs Announced
Several other lawmakers have also been assigned as committee chairpersons and senior vice chairpersons:
– Bataan 2nd District Rep. Albert Garcia serves as senior vice chairperson of appropriations.
– Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores heads the committee on dangerous drugs.
– Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua leads the committee on good government and public accountability.
– Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. chairs the committee on human rights.
– Cagayan de Oro 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan oversees public information.
– Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano manages public order and safety.
– Marikina 2nd District Rep. Miro Quimbo directs the committee on ways and means, with Manila 1st District Rep. Ernestio Dionisio Jr. as senior vice chairperson.
Committee on Appropriations’ Vital Role
The committee on appropriations, led by Suansing, is tasked with scrutinizing the national budget submitted by the executive branch. They will draft their version of the budget, known as the General Appropriations Bill (GAB), which will determine government spending priorities.
Despite being a new lawmaker, Suansing has been active during the 19th Congress, championing important legislation such as amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL). Last May, she expressed openness to collaborating with the Senate to improve the RTL proposals, showing her commitment to effective policymaking.
Challenges Ahead Amid Budget Scrutiny
Suansing assumes her role on the appropriation panel at a critical time. In his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned lawmakers that he would reject any budget proposal not aligned with his administration’s programs, even if that means reverting to a reenacted budget.
This warning comes amid concerns about the budget process, particularly regarding allegations of corruption affecting funding for flood control projects. The administration’s stance signals a rigorous approach to budget approval, emphasizing transparency and alignment with national priorities.
As the 20th Congress moves forward, the leadership of Suansing and Zamora in their respective committees will be crucial in ensuring proper management and oversight of government funds.
For more news and updates on House committee leadership, visit Filipinokami.com.
