Isabela Representative Antonio Albano Assumes Deputy Speaker Role, Arroyo Replaced
PAMPANGA—In a significant shift within the leadership of the Philippine House of Representatives, Isabela 1st District Representative Antonio Albano was elected as deputy speaker on Tuesday, succeeding former president and Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
According to Philippines News Agency, the decision for a leadership overhaul was presented during the plenary session. Alongside Arroyo, Davao City Representative Isidro Ungab was also removed from the deputy speaker position, with Lanao del Sur 2nd District Representative Yasser Alonto Balindong appointed as his replacement. The session, presided over by Deputy Speaker Roberto Puno, saw no objections to these motions, leading to their approval.
The replacement of Arroyo and Ungab stems from their decision not to endorse House Resolution 1414. House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Representative Manuel Jose Dalipe underscored that the resolution is vital, serving to reaffirm the House’s integrity and its solidarity with the leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez. Dalipe emphasized the resolution’s role in uniting the House leadership against recent criticisms and attacks targeting the institution and its leaders.
Dalipe elaborated that while individual opinions among House members are respected, those holding leadership roles are expected to align with the leadership’s collective decisions, especially on issues deemed critical to the House. The non-signature of the pivotal resolution by Arroyo and Ungab was seen as a divergence from this expectation, necessitating the change in leadership to ensure unity in the House’s direction.
Reiterating the commitment of the House to work diligently for the Filipino people, Dalipe ensured that the leadership will reflect the necessary unity and direction for effective governance.
Responding to the leadership’s decision, Ungab expressed his acceptance and gratitude for the opportunity to have served, affirming his continued support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration. He expressed no ill feelings regarding his removal, maintaining his dedication to the country.
As of the latest updates, former Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo had not provided a statement regarding her replacement.