Sotto sees no need for special session to pass supplemental budget for COVID-19

Saying the executive department has enough budget on hand for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said  the Senate does not need to hold a special session to pass a supplemental budget.

"What for? Ano ipapasa namin na kailangan agad? Budget is complete and available with the executive department. Late filing of taxes can be waived. Curfew can be imposed by LGUs," he told reporters in a message as he answered a query on whether the Senate considers holding special sessions via telecommuting.

"Executive department has more than enough [budget]. DBM Sec[retary] even said before. There are so many budgets available," he added.

Congress is currently on break and will resume session on May 4.

Senators from the minority bloc on Sunday appealed for a special session of Congress to approve a supplemental budget that will be used to cushion the various threats of COVID-19 to the public and economy.

In light of the enhanced community quarantine due to COVID-19, work at the Senate has been suspended. —LDF, GMA News