MANILA, Philippines — In a move to commemorate Women's Month, female members of the Philippine House of Representatives will preside over the session on Monday. House Speaker Martin Romualdez announced the appointment of lady lawmakers to key positions for the day's session, aligning with Section 15 (h), Rule IV of the House rules.
According to Philippines News Agency, the designated presiding officers include Linabelle Ruth Villarica (4th District, Bulacan), Stella Luz Quimbo (2nd District, Marikina City), Maria Rachel Arenas (3rd District, Pangasinan), Anna Marie Suarez (Alona Partylist), Laarni Lavin Roque (4th District, Bukidnon), Josephine Veronique Noel (Malabon City), Mary Mitzi Uy (2nd District, Caloocan City), Marlyn Agabas (6th District, Pangasinan), Glona Labadlabad (2nd District, Zamboanga del Norte), and Geraldine Roman (1st District, Bataan). Additionally, Maria Angela Garcia (Bataan 3rd District) will serve as Majority Leader, with Bernadette Herrera (Bagong Henerasyon Party-list) acting as Minority Leader.
Romualdez highlighted the significance of this designation, stating it "reflects the importance the House leadership puts on the role of its women members and Filipino women in general in lawmaking, in nation-building, and in society." He emphasized the House's commitment to championing women empowerment, gender equality, and gender balance, acknowledging women as vital moral pillars in decision-making processes that affect families, communities, and the nation.
Expressing gratitude towards his female colleagues and Filipino women, Romualdez paid special tribute to his wife, Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, referring to her as "the Speaker of my House." He praised women's contributions to nation-building and their roles in household management and guiding families towards righteousness.
The session led by women legislators is expected to focus on the passage of pro-women and children bills and the adoption of resolutions. Following the Committee of the Whole's deliberations on proposed economic constitutional amendments, the House will continue with its regular plenary sessions. Since February 26, the chamber has extended its schedule, conducting hearings on economic Charter reform proposals and resuming Committee of the Whole deliberations after plenary sessions.