Palace: Admin to work with new House Speaker

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

Garnering 253 votes, Deputy Speaker and Isabela 6th district Representative Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III is now the new Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 20th Congress. (Photo: House of Representatives of the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA – Malacañang on Wednesday said the Marcos administration looks forward to working with newly-installed Speaker Faustino Dy III, following the resignation of Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez as leader of the House of Representatives.

“The President recognizes the vital role of the House of Representatives, especially at a time when the public demands visible results and Congress is called upon to take active steps that address people’s concerns and deliver real improvements in daily life,” the Palace said in a statement.

The Palace said it respects the independence of the lower chamber and “acknowledges the contributions of former Speaker Martin Romualdez.”

“We now look forward to working with Speaker Faustino Dy III to advance measures that strengthen the economy, ensure basic services, and protect our democracy.”

The Palace also assured the public that the administration remains committed to “constructive collaboration with all lawmakers to keep the focus on the needs of Filipino families and move the nation forward.”

Romualdez, cousin of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., tendered his resignation during Wednesday’s plenary session.

He said his decision was meant to allow “full accountability and transparency” amid ongoing investigations into alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

“Today, with a full heart and a clear conscience, I tender my resignation as Speaker of the House of Representatives. I do this so that the Independent Commission on Infrastructure may pursue its mandate freely and fully — without doubt, without interference, and without undue influence,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez had earlier been mentioned in connection with the controversy, though Malacañang stressed he would not be spared from investigation if evidence arises.

Marcos and Romualdez met in Malacañang on Tuesday evening, but the Palace did not provide further details.

Dy, a veteran lawmaker from Isabela, was swiftly elected as the new Speaker. He vowed to push priority measures of the Marcos administration and maintain stability in the chamber.

The change in House leadership came as the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), chaired by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., began work this week investigating corruption-tainted flood control programs.