Senate Plans Bill on Government Officials and Suppliers
MANILA, Philippines — A new bill aiming to prohibit lawmakers and government officials from becoming suppliers to the government is set to be filed soon. This measure targets officials up to the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity, addressing concerns over conflicts of interest and corruption.
Senate President Francis Escudero announced his intention to file the bill on July 29 or 30. He emphasized that this response aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to stamp out corruption and prevent misuse of government funds.
“We will file a measure that would prohibit to the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity any lawmaker or government official to be a supplier to the government,” Escudero said. He added, “For me, there’s a clear conflict of interest and it should not be allowed.”
Escudero hopes the Senate will prioritize this legislation and include it in the agenda of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.
Senate Caucus to Discuss Anti-Corruption Measures
The Senate is scheduled to hold an all-member caucus on Tuesday afternoon, where this bill will be among the key topics. Escudero urged senators to focus on their duties despite political distractions.
“Just like what I said yesterday, let us work. Let us not be swayed by the noise of politics. That is a part of our job but let us not be distracted by the noise of politics,” he stated.
Presidential Warning Against Corruption
In his recent State of the Nation Address, President Marcos issued a firm warning to officials involved in corruption related to flood control projects.
“Shame on you. Be ashamed because our fellow Filipinos were swept by floods or were submerged in floodwaters. Be ashamed of our children who will inherit that debt incurred because of what you committed, because you pocketed the funds,” Marcos said in Filipino, expressing deep concern over the misuse of funds meant to protect vulnerable communities.
With this new measure, the Senate aims to strengthen transparency and accountability, ensuring that public officials cannot benefit directly from government contracts through family ties.
For more news and updates on government officials and suppliers, visit Filipinokami.com.
