By: Ben R. Rosario
In return for the rare display of heroism and gallantry in Marawi City, the House of Representatives will push for swift action on legislative measures that would improve the conditions of members of the uniformed services and their family.
Quezon City Reps. Winston Castelo and Alfred Vargas made this vow as they commended members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police for successfully liberating Marawi City from Islamic State-inspired Maute Group.
Among the legislative proposals expected to be swiftly passed is one that seeks to reform the retirement benefit and pension system of the seven major uniformed services of the government.
“The return home of the Army 1st Infantry Battalion was a convincing signal that the Marawi City conflict is over and for the rebuilding process to start, and most importantly restoring hope among the residents of the ruined city to rebuild their lives,” said Castelo.
On the other hand, Vargas called on all Filipinos to support government efforts to rebuild Marawi and help Muslim brothers recover well from their recent trials.
“The most difficult part of ending is beginning again,” Vargas said, as he expressed full backing to the plan of the administration to provide a budget amounting to billions for the immediate rehabilitation of the city.
Vargas, vice chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, said the House panel should be expected to do its part by acting swiftly on budget measures seeking to finance the Marawi rebuilding efforts.
The administration lawmaker said the appropriations panel will do the same quick response in financing measures that would benefit soldiers and policemen.
“Let this Marawi experience teach us all to endure our trials as a nation, and not to take our peace and freedom for granted. Let us be vigilant and steadfast in protecting the very principles that define our democracy,” Vargas said as he commended the AFP for the death of terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute.
