By Lilybeth G. Ison
PNA:
Speaker Prospero Nograles on Wednesday bade farewell to the 14th Congress, urging the next batch of lawmakers to continue to respond to the challenges facing the country.
"Our time has come to an end. I think we did our part in the task of nation-building. I have no personal regrets. But all good things must come to pass," said Nograles in a text message.
"The 15th Congress will build from where we left off and our hope is that the new House (of Representatives) members will respond to the challenges facing the nation and the new administration. I wish them all and the new Speaker of the House all the best and I pray they will have a successful House of the people," he said.
Nograles cited the accomplishments of the 14th Congress including the improvements in the physical structure of the Lower Chamber, which according to him, "have restored the dignity of the House."
He also cited the construction of a new building, which he said was the "most extensive rehabilitation of the complex in 33 years," provision of new facilities, scholarship grants to deserving House staff, and additional compensation and benefits to employees.
"(The) most extensive upgrading and rehabilitation of buildings and facilities in 33 years, (the) highest record in legislative performance both in quantity and quality, brought the House closer to the people," said Nograles.
Despite receiving negative comments from some of his colleagues and various groups after the House of Representatives failed to ratify the Freedom of Information bill, the outgoing House Speaker said the Lower Chamber has made headway in passing bills to empower women, improve the banking system, and exempting minimum wage earners from paying income tax.
He also took pride in the passage of the cheaper medicines bill, the extended rent control bill, additional retirement benefits to members of the judiciary and prosecutors, and the senior citizens bill.
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