Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste “thanked” his colleagues in the House of Representatives who had disputed his claim that the P2 million given to each lawmaker during the Christmas season was a bonus, but who in the process admitted its existence.

According to Leviste, amid the statements of his colleagues, he was seeking an answer to where the P18.58-billion Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) went.

The congressman cited Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno’s clarification that the figure was not a Christmas bonus for congressmen, but was to go toward the Christmas festivities in their districts.

“I thank Deputy Speaker Puno for confirming that there was P2 million and for clarifying that it was not a Christmas bonus but additional funding for the Christmas requirements in each district. You could hold Christmas parties with your barangay captains, conduct health activities, carry out consultations, many things,” Leviste noted.

He also cited Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon, who earlier explained that the P2 million given to each lawmaker was sourced from the MOOE and was meant for their office operations and district needs. Leviste, however, claimed the figure was on top of the P1 million monthly office budget.