Malacañang on Tuesday said it understands the logic behind the proposed “no work, no pay” scheme for lawmakers, but emphasized that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will not interfere in Congress’ legislative process.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President sees merit in the proposal filed by his son, Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos, particularly in strengthening accountability in the use of public funds.
“Maganda po ito para naman malaman nila na ang mga ‘di nagtatrabaho ay di naman dapat makinabang sa pondo ng bayan,” Castro said during a Palace briefing.
However, Castro stressed that the President respects the separation of powers and has no role in pushing or crafting legislation.
“Ang sabi lamang ng Pangulo, trabaho po ‘yan ng mambabatas at hindi siya makikialam kung ito po ay maisasabatas,” she added.
She noted that President Marcos will only review the measure if and when it is transmitted to Malacañang for approval.
The proposed bill, which aims to tie lawmakers’ salaries to their attendance and participation in legislative work, has drawn public attention amid frustrations over repeated absences in Congress, particularly in the Senate.