Palace optimistic that Noy can convince senators to approve BBL

Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte (Screenshot of PCCO EDP press briefing video)

MANILA — Malacañang remains hopeful that President Aquino will be able to convince the senate to support his version of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

“We’re optimistic that the President can ably put forth the position of government when it comes to the BBL,” Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said, as quoted in a Philippine Daily Inquirer report.

Senators have expressed reservations on the passage of BBL, as seen in their support of the report produced by the committee on constitutional amendments.

Several senators including committee head, Sen.

Miriam Defensor-Santiago agreed to include revisions in the draft of the BBL.

Despite this, Valte said they are still optimistic that President Aquino will be able to convince the senate just as he did with the House of Representatives.

“We’ve always said that we recognize the independence of both Houses of Congress and that, of course, they can propose amendments to any piece of legislation that we work with them,” Valte said.

“So at this point, we look forward to the opportunity really to continually discuss the administration’s position on the BBL with senators,” she added.