The continuing role of the government is to remove barriers and provide wider access to healthcare assistance which is a universal basic service. - Francis Escudero

• Additional P816.229 million for the Philippine Crop Insurance Service which will now total P2 billion;

I laud the Supreme Court for its decision to allow Sen. Grace Poe to run for president in the May 9 national elections. The Supreme Court once again sided with the rule of law in upholding the petition of Sen. Grace to reverse the partisan, biased and unfounded decision of the Commission on Elections disqualifying her from the presidential race. The decision of the Supreme Court is not only a victory for Sen. Grace but a victory for other foundlings who aspire to seek for higher office in order to serve the country. This is a great day for the Filipino people.

• Increase of P500 million for the Quick Response Fund of the Department of Health;