Manila – In a significant move on Monday, the Philippine House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution to assert the institution’s integrity and honor while expressing unwavering support for the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
According to Philippines News Agency, the resolution, House Resolution No. 1414, was initiated by the Committee of the Whole and aims to safeguard the institution’s integrity against any destabilizing efforts. House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe articulated the members’ resolute backing of Speaker Romualdez, highlighting a shared commitment to enhancing legislative service delivery to the Filipino people.
Dalipe, in his sponsorship speech for the Committee of the Whole report on HR 1414, emphasized the majority’s belief in the House’s potential to address critical national issues and promote the welfare of the country under Speaker Romualdez’s visionary leadership.
Further support came from Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., who, in a separate sponsorship speech, recognized Romualdez’s exceptional stewardship that has maintained a dynamic and independent legislature. Gonzales underscored the Speaker’s dedication to upholding the dignity and reputation of the House. He also noted his personal political stance, announcing his resignation from the PDP-Laban party and denouncing former president Rodrigo Duterte for derogatory remarks against the legislative body.
Backing for the House leadership was echoed by various parties, including the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), National Unity Party (NUP), Nacionalista Party (NP), Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), and others during the Committee of the Whole deliberations. A notable roster of lawmakers endorsed HR 1414, demonstrating broad support across the political spectrum.
The resolution delineates the importance of preserving the House’s dignity, especially in the face of criticism, which is regarded as an inherent aspect of democracy. The lawmakers collectively denounced any statements that would undermine the independence or reputation of the institution.
In the face of adversity, the resolution praises Romualdez for his unwavering defense of the House’s integrity and for standing against those who seek to damage the institution for their personal gains.