House Approaches Full Completion of LEDAC Priority Bills
As the 19th Congress nears its final two weeks, the House of Representatives is on the brink of completing nearly all priority legislative measures outlined by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). The House, led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, has approved 27 out of the 28 LEDAC priority bills during the past year, showcasing a near 100 percent completion rate.
These priority measures, also part of the Common Legislative Agenda (CLA), are set to be finalized before the 19th Congress adjourns sine die on June 13. Speaking at the 8th LEDAC meeting held at Malacañang Palace, Speaker Romualdez reported, “As of today (Thursday), we have acted on 27 out of the 28 LEDAC priority bills—a near-100% accomplishment rate.”
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including Senate leaders, Cabinet members, and House leaders, highlighting the collaborative effort behind these legislative achievements.
Significant Bills Signed Into Law and Under Deliberation
Among the 27 approved measures, 12 have already been signed into law. These include landmark legislations such as the New Government Procurement Reform Act, the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act, and the VAT on Digital Transactions. Other notable laws enacted include the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act, the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, and amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act.
Some bills, like the amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), automatically lapsed into law, while others, such as the Capital Markets Promotion Act, await the President’s approval.
Currently, several measures remain under the Bicameral Conference Committee’s review. These include the Blue Economy Act, amendments to the Universal Health Care Act, and the Open Access in Data Transmission Act. Meanwhile, some bills have passed the House’s third reading and are now with the Senate, such as the National Water Resources Act and the Immigration Modernization Act.
Only One Bill Awaits House Approval
Notably, from the entire set of 28 LEDAC priority bills, the proposed amendments to the Agrarian Reform Law are the only measure still pending approval by the House. This leaves the House with a nearly complete record of legislative accomplishments for the year.
The 19th Congress, covering the first three years of the current administration, has handled a total of 64 LEDAC measures, with the House approving 61 of them. The remaining bills include the National Defense Act, the Budget Modernization bill, and the aforementioned Agrarian Reform Law amendments.
Looking Ahead to the 20th Congress
After a break for the 2025 mid-term elections, Congress will resume sessions on June 2. Speaker Romualdez reaffirmed the House’s dedication to continuing its legislative agenda, emphasizing the commitment to passing laws that directly improve the lives of Filipinos.
He assured the President, “Mr. President, since the beginning, the House of Representatives has remained steadfast in its efforts towards the passage of the identified LEDAC CLA priority measures. As Congress resumes session on June 2, rest assured of our unwavering commitment to enacting key legislation that will bring tangible improvements in the lives of the Filipino people.”
The near completion of LEDAC priority measures highlights the legislature’s focus on addressing pressing national issues through effective lawmaking.
For more news and updates on LEDAC priority measures, visit Filipinokami.com.