Manila, Philippines – Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez affirmed on Monday that the House of Representatives is “fiercely united” in its mission to serve the populace, notwithstanding threats and acts of intimidation from various quarters.
According to Philippines News Agency, who addressed the body during the resumption of the session, the politics of division is unwelcome in the House. Despite being composed of over 300 members with varying views and beliefs, the chamber stands united, especially when faced with external efforts to discredit it. He indicated a resolve among the members to uphold their duty to their constituents and not to succumb to any attempts at obstructing their legislative mandate.
The Speaker also addressed the criticism surrounding the House’s handling of the proposed 2024 national budget. He maintained that the decision-making process involving budget realignments was neither lenient nor biased, but was instead a rigorous endeavor aimed at improving the welfare of Filipinos and adhering to the principles of checks and balances.
Romualdez further noted that the House has been consistent in upholding democratic values, including fair representation and the right to dissent. He referenced the high ratings the House and he personally have received in recent surveys, attributing this public trust to the unity and collective action within the institution.
He specifically pointed out the results of the Octa Research 3rd quarter 2023 survey, which indicated a significant rise in his trust ratings from 38 percent to 60 percent between 2022 and 2023, and a performance satisfaction increase from 44 percent to 61 percent within the same period.
The Speaker concluded by emphasizing the House’s accomplishments under the 19th Congress, including the early approval of priority measures set by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), the passage of the general appropriations bill, and advancement on legislation highlighted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his State of the Nation Address. These achievements, according to Romualdez, are the House’s response to its detractors and a testament to its dedication to legislative duties, moral integrity, and service to the Filipino people.