Senators Renew Push for Blue Economy Law Priority
The proposed Blue Economy law has gained fresh backing from two senators who are urging for it to be highlighted as a key priority in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona). This legislation aims to harness the country’s vast maritime resources sustainably and boost inclusive growth.
President Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fourth Sona on July 28 before a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Senators Loren Legarda and Risa Hontiveros expressed hope that the Blue Economy law will be among the priorities mentioned during this pivotal speech.
Legarda Champions Blue Economy Law
Senator Loren Legarda, the principal author of the Blue Economy Act in the Senate, stated, “As we look ahead to President Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address, I’m hopeful that some of the key measures we’ve already filed, like the proposed Blue Economy Act, will be recognized as national priorities.”
She emphasized that the bill aims to use the country’s rich marine resources to stimulate inclusive economic growth while safeguarding the environment and enhancing the resilience of coastal communities. The Senate approved the bill last August, and a counterpart measure passed the House earlier this year. However, the 19th Congress adjourned on June 30 without enacting the law.
Determined to see the bill passed, Legarda vowed to continue pushing for its approval in the 20th Congress. “We’re committed to pushing for the immediate passage of this and other measures that respond directly to the needs of our people,” she said.
Hontiveros Supports Blue Economy Bill
Senator Risa Hontiveros, a co-author of the bill, also voiced strong support. Speaking in Filipino, she said, “I’m very supportive of the Blue Economy Bill. I’m actually a co-author of it because we are truly a maritime and archipelagic nation.”
She highlighted that the bill is not only about territorial concerns such as the West Philippine Sea but also focuses on protecting the rights and welfare of fisherfolk along with preserving marine ecosystems. “Hopefully, that’s one of the many important things the President will mention in his Sona,” she added.
Additional Legislative Priorities by Legarda
Beyond the Blue Economy law, Legarda has filed several other bills addressing urgent national issues. These include the Living Wage Act, which mandates government agencies to ensure a living wage that supports a decent standard of living.
She also proposed the Pangkabuhayan Act, creating a one-stop support system for small businesses and those who are unemployed or underemployed. Additionally, there is the Complementarity in Education Act, designed to foster collaboration between public and private schools to widen student access to quality education.
Furthermore, Legarda advocates for the Open Government Data Act and the Results-Based Governance Act. These laws aim to enhance transparency by making government data accessible and ensuring agencies deliver measurable outcomes.
Legarda expressed hope that the upcoming Sona would not only celebrate achievements but also open the door for bold reforms that uplift Filipino lives.
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