The Senate will approve its own version of the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund bill by next week, Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri said Thursday.

“The plan is to approve it by the second and third reading next week. We are accommodating the last few members who want to interpellate on Monday then we can open the period of amendments immediately after,” Zubiri said in a text message to reporters.

“As a certified measure, we can close and approve the bill on that same week. Hopefully, the House can adopt our version which we improved with more safeguards in place to avoid possible misuse,” he added.

He made the remarks after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. certified Senate Bill 2020 as a priority legislative measure.

The House of Representatives approved the third and final reading of House Bill 6608, or the proposed MIF bill before adjourning for the Christmas break last year.

Congress will adjourn sine die on 2 June.

Should the House agree to adopt the Senate version of the proposed measure by next week, the bill would be enrolled automatically for the President’s approval.