PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday called on Congress to thresh out differences on the proposed P1.227 trillion national budget for 2008 and pass it as soon as possible so as not to delay the implementation of key projects and programs.

Arroyo said at a Cabinet meeting that the budget would fund anti-poverty measures and the safety nets for the rising prices of oil products and basic commodities.

She said the immediate enactment of the budget is needed to complete irrigation projects and farm-to-market roads before the next planting season to increase the income of the farmers and the volume of affordable food.

The passage of the 2008 budget has been delayed as the Senate has questioned P13.5 billion additional pork barrel which was inserted by the House.

Former Senate President Franklin Drilon last week said the P13.5 billion insertions were to be found in the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways for 2008.

Senate President Manny Villar on Monday said the Senate will slash the additional pork barrel in the bicameral conference committee.

Congress will tackle the budget when it resumes session on Jan. 28. – Regina Bengco