VP Robredo backs passage of P1.3-trillion ARISE bill

Vice President Leni Robredo has thrown her support behind the passage of the P1.3-trillion Accelerated Recovery and Investments Stimulus for the Economy (ARISE) bill to help the economy get back on its feet amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Robredo said that the ARISE bill—broken down to P688 billion in funding for the first year to help address the economic impact of COVID-19 and another P650 billion for the next three years for the enhanced “Build, Build, Build” program aimed at creating 1.5 million jobs—is well-thought out and inclusive.

Likewise, the ARISE bill is expected to assist 15.7 million workers, create three million short-term jobs, and aid 5.57 million micro, small, and medium enterprises.

“Nailatag na naman ng mga ekspertong ekonomista sa Kamara sa anyo ng ARISE Bill. Kung maisasabatas ito, magkakaroon ng dagdag at tiyak na pondo para sa mga mga programa tulad ng wage subsidies ng DOLE at cash-for-work ng TUPAD,” Robredo said in an address on Wednesday afternoon.

“Malinaw na mas nakatuon sa pinaka nangangailangan ang ARISE; mas inclusive ito, at mas pro-poor. Gamitin sana ang puwersa ng mayorya upang ipasa ang batas sa lalong madaling panahon,” Robredo added.

The Vice President also suggested the granting of tax incentives for private companies who aid those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A risk assessment on industries done by experts both from the public and private sector amid COVID-19 was also proposed by Robredo, saying that it would be crucial in crafting future policies.

“Sayang ang kaalaman kung isasantabi lang din natin. Kung alam na natin kung alin ang mataas ang peligro, tiyakin nang ieenforce ang mga karagdagang patakaran sa kanila, kung hindi man isususpinde ang pagbubukas,” Robredo said.

“Malalaman din natin, mula sa mga industriyang mababa ang peligro, kung anong klaseng skills ang puwedeng pagsanayan ng mga empleyadong hindi kayang mag-work-from-home,” she added. — BM, GMA News