IPINALIWANAG ng Palasyo na nagdesisyon si Pangulong Duterte na i-veto ang panukalang batas sa coconut levy dahil matutulad lamang daw ito sa kontrobersiyal na Road Board kung saan napunta sa katiwalian ang pondo.
Ani Presidential Spokesperson at Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo na sa ilalim ng panukalang Revised Coconut Industry Code ay maglalaan ng P10 bilyon ang gobyerno na hahawakan ng PCA Board.
“The PCA is set up like the Road Board which is heavily criticized for allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds. The PCA Board, like the Road Board which disburses the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge, is given full authority to disburse P10-billion every year in perpetuity without a terminal date, and subject only to review by Congress after six years,” sabi ni Pa-nelo.
Nauna nang nagpadala ng liham si Duterte sa Senado at Kamara kaugnay sa kanyang desisyong huwag lagdaan ang isinumiteng panukala sa Palasyo.
“While the President recognizes and commends the efforts of both Houses for their zealousness and selflessness in passing the measure, it is therefore with a heavy heart that he exercises his veto power pursuant to Article 6, Section 27, Paragraph 1 of the Constitution over the said bill, with the thought and confidence that the lawmakers can re-craft one that will provide more safeguards to protect the taxpayers’ money and shield the levy funds from irregular and unlawful use, as well as guarantee its proper management,” ayon pa sa opisyal.