Nograles: We will pass CARP extension bill before June 13

(Update) MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles Jr on Wednesday evening assured that the proposed measure seeking to extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) for five years will be passed before Congress adjourns sine die next week. Nograles made the statement after some 140 farmers disgruntled over the Lower House's failure to pass the CARP extension bill stormed his office and threatened to hold a vigil there under they heard from him. “I am committed to pass the CARP extension law and the House will pass it before we adjourn on June 13," he said in a text message to the media. A GMA News report late Wednesday said that farmers were preparing to leave the Batasan complex after getting Nograles’ assurance. The farmers went to Nograles’ office after the day’s session ended without passing the CARP extension bill, or House Bill 4077. Nograles described the farmers’ action as “premature." “We have to listen to all sides and not just to one group. The action of these farmers is premature," he said. Nograles Jr. arrived at the Batasan Complex in Quezon City shortly before 11 p.m. and spoke to farmers who stormed his office earlier Wednesday night. Radio dzBB's Roland Bola reported that Nograles tried to explain to the farmers why the day's session ended without passing a bill extending the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. Nograles, who the report said was sweating during his talk with the farmers, said he had to make sure there were enough votes from his colleagues to pass the bill on third reading. But Jaime Tadeo, one of the farmers' leaders, said they might already be out of time as the CARP is due to end this Tuesday, June 10. The discussion was held at the lobby of the Lower House, even as nuns barred from entering the Batasan Complex continued to pray outside. Security remained tight at the Batasan complex. - GMANews.TV