The BIBLEMODE, of which I am the president, give our support to Rep. Teddy Casino and Neri Colmenares on their House Bill 4002 which aims to provide immediate relief to the poor, especially on the loss of their loved ones. This will also prevent loan sharks and gambling lords from taking advantage of their situation. Such an example is during wakes of our poor kababayans where their loved ones entertain “sakla” and other types of gambling for a cut in the earnings. We believe that gamlbing is a desecration of the dead and a sign of disrespect but because of poverty, they cannot do anything but succumb to such offers. We hope Congress will enact this bill into law. In my district alone, about 30 people die among the poor every week. – Rep. Benny Abante, 6th District – 13th & 14th Congress