By Samantha Yu
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has scheduled a special session of Congress on June 17 to accelerate the approval of several priority measures designed to strengthen social protection programs and improve public services nationwide.
The move, formalized through Proclamation No. 1318, seeks to advance legislation covering healthcare, education, nutrition, emergency assistance, and governance reforms at a time when the country continues to face disaster-related and economic challenges.
Among the bills included in the special session agenda are proposals creating a National Center for Geriatric Health, expanding government educational assistance, improving access to tertiary education, and providing stronger support for students in remote and disadvantaged communities.
Congress is also expected to deliberate on measures that would institutionalize aid for individuals in crises, enhance child nutrition initiatives, establish a Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, and address political dynasties through proposed reforms.
In addition, the session will allow the Commission on Appointments to process pending appointments involving senior government officials, military officers, and members of the foreign service.
Marcos said immediate legislative action is necessary as many Filipinos continue to deal with the effects of recent disasters, including the earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao. He emphasized the need for sustained assistance to students, improved healthcare for elderly citizens, and expanded protection for vulnerable sectors.
“The needs of the Filipino people do not pause when Congress is not in session,” the President said, stressing that government institutions must remain responsive to public needs.
The 1987 Constitution authorizes the President to call Congress into a special session whenever urgent national concerns require prompt legislative attention.
