The House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, has authorized all standing and special committees to conduct hearings during its five-week Lenten break.
Meanwhile, four senators will attend an international conference while another will be on study during the break, as the Senate resumes its sessions on April 29.
In a formal motion presented to the House plenary, Deputy Majority Leader and Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy V on Wednesday night called for the continuation of committee proceedings throughout the break from March 21 to April 28.
House Deputy Speaker and TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza swiftly approved the motion.
The decision to allow committee hearings during the congressional break highlights the House’s commitment to prioritizing legislative responsibilities and addressing pressing issues facing the nation, the Speaker said in a statement.
“It reflects a proactive approach to governance, ensuring that important legislation is not delayed due to scheduled recess periods,” he added.
Romualdez, the leader of the 300 plus-strong chamber, underscored the importance of maintaining momentum in legislative efforts.
“The House remains steadfast in its commitment to serve the Filipino people. Allowing committee hearings during the break demonstrates our dedication to fulfilling our duties as legislators and addressing the needs of our constituents,” he said. Maricel Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri will be joined by Senators Lito Lapid, Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano and Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III in Geneva, Switzerland for the 148th International Parliamentary Union (IPU) Conference.
The IPU, composed of 180 countries, intends to promote inter-parliamentary dialogue and diplomacy between nations. Its conference this year, with the theme “Parliamentary Diplomacy,” will be held from March 23 to March 27.
Among the agenda is the ratification of proposals on artificial intelligence and climate action.
On the other hand, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Rep. Mark Go, along with the Advisory Council of the Second Congressional Educational Commission, are in Vietnam for a study visit from March 21 to March 24.
They will study Vietnam’s education system in boosting the capabilities of their teachers.
In his adjournment speech, the Speaker highlighted the House’s notable achievements, including its impressive 100-percent accomplishment in approving SONA and LEDAC priority measures ahead of time.
Moreover, he emphasized the crucial role played by the House in exercising its oversight function through inquiries in aid of legislation, describing them as “pivotal in safeguarding the integrity of government institutions and the welfare of our people.”
“These inquiries are the bedrock of accountability and transparency within our government,” he said.
The Speaker likewise defended the hearings conducted by the Committee on Legislative Franchises regarding alleged violations by Sonshine Media Network International of the broadcasting privilege granted by Congress, and the panel’s recommendation to revoke it.