Senators urge DBM to release ASAP remainder of Bayanihan 2 funds

Several senators urged the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to release as soon as possible the remaining allocations under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2 to concerned agencies.

The lawmakers stressed that said funds were meant to facilitate economic recovery amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senate committee on finance chairperson Sonny Angara welcomed the DBM's release of P76.22 billion out of the P140 billion general fund that was provided for under the Bayanihan 2.

"It’s good since the law is effective until December 19, 2020. It’s best that most of the funding be released soon," Angara said in a message.

"It’s clear the government is speeding up its releases and that is good for the various affected sectors who are eligible to receive help under the law," he added.

DBM Secretary Wendel Avisado assured that all budget requests are being processed and that there will be no delays as long as complete documentary requirements are submitted by the government agencies, according to Senator Christopher "Bong" Go.

"Wala pong rason na hindi po mai-release ang pondo kaagad. Kung kaming mga legislators ay nag-overtime para maipasa ang Bayanihan 2, dapat mag-overtime din ang mga executive agencies para mapondohan at maimplementa ang mga ito," he added.

Senator Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri also reminded the DBM that the Bayanihan 2 is time-bound and urgency is really needed.

"Kung hindi ma-release lahat, it's possible na maipasa namin ang isang simple amendment kung saan extend po natin ang validity ng Bayanihan 2," he said in an online interview.

Nonetheless, the senator said that would not be necessary if Avisado can take swift action.

Senator Grace Poe also hopes the various affected sectors would be able to feel the impact of the economic recovery package as soon as possible.

"Bureaucratic delays must spare the money intended to tide our people and sectors over the coronavirus crisis," she said in a separate statement. "Huwag na nating hintayin ang Pasko bago nila maramdaman ang benepisyo ng Bayanihan 2."

The Bayanihan 2 was signed into law last September 11 and will expire on December 19 when Congress adjourns session. -NB, GMA News