"The Senate version of the 2015 National Budget will define savings in FULL COMPLIANCE WITH THE SUPREME COURT DECISION on the Priority Development Assistance Fund and the Disbursement Acceleration Program . Our committee accepted all of Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago's points and took note of her concerns. I believe Senator Santiago based her speech on the NEP version, NOT the one the Senate has amended. However, the Senate version is never going to adopt the version of the NEP as regard to their definition of savings."

“I am deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden demise of Ambassador Roy Seneres. He is a big loss to the OFWs and their families, whose causes and concerns he had fought for. Our deepest condolences to his family. I appeal to our people to pray for the eternal repose of Ambassador Seneres, as well as for strength for his loved ones during this difficult time.”

“The 92-page court en banc decision penned by Justice Lucas P. Bersamin ruled that there are three acts and practices under the DAP which are deemed “UNCONSTITUTIONAL for being in violation of Section 25, Article VI of the 1987 Constitution and the doctrine of separation of powers.”

“Like billions of Catholics around the world, I greet Pope Francis’ election with a great measure of hope and optimism because it signals a fresh start. For many Catholics, this beacon of hope and optimism could very well rekindle a faith scarred by scandals and controversies.”

“First, Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, the facts. About a year ago, the legislative mill nearly came to a halt when the Supreme Court decision on the unconstitutionality of the Priority Development Assistance Fund or the pork barrel system radically altered the budget landscape. Declared as unconstitutional by the High Court were the following, and I quote:”

“Postponing the elections is not possible. Under the Constitution and even under our laws, elections cannot and should not be postponed. Comelec has no power to do that. Their only mandate is to supervise elections in our country every three years. And precisely because elections happen only every three years, there is no reason for the Comelec not to do it effectively.”

“During the 60's and early 70"s, the Philippines had one of the lowest electricity rates in Asia. Today, we have the highest.”