Impasse over 2019 budget ends: House leader

August 15, 2018

A “budget impasse” between the House of Representatives and the Department of Budget was partially resolved, with Congress more likely adopting a hybrid budgeting system following a meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at Malacanang Tuesday night, a House leader bared Wednesday.

In a press conference, House Majority Leader and Camarines Sur Rep Rolando Andaya Jr. said this prompted the House leadership to consider resuming the suspended deliberations of the proposed 2019 P3.757-trillion national budget during the two-week congressional break. Congress is to adjourn this week.

Andaya said “lines of communication” are open after the meeting he and special assistant to the President Bong Go also attended.

“The president opened the lines of communication on how the budget for 2019 will come out at the House of Representatives,” Andaya told reporters.

Andaya said a hybrid budgeting system or combination of cash-based and obligation-based could be adopted  depending on the requirements of the projects.

“I think I can suggest to the chairman (Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles of the House committee on appropriations) to continue the budget hearings. The president's instructions were clear, during the break we will resume the hearings,” said Andaya.

“Likewise, it is a gesture of hand of cooperation to the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) and the Senate, ” Andaya said

The cash-based budgeting system limits appropriations, bidding, completion of projects and payments within a single year and the first three months of the following year.

Andaya said they agreed budgetary cuts would be restored and allow validity of some payments to one year plus six months or the first half of the following year

He said Duterte told them to do what is good for the country when asked about guidance in the national budget.

“I leave it to you (members of Congress) to decide. Do what you feel is right.  I will not interfere,” Andaya quoted Duterte as saying. DMS