MANILA: (Bernama-PNA) The Philippines’ Malacanang on Wednesday (Sept 17) said President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr’s administration looks forward to working with newly-installed Speaker Faustino Dy III (pic), following the resignation of Leyte Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez as leader of the House of Representatives.
"The President recognises 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.
It said the administration respects the independence of the lower chamber and "acknowledges the contributions of former Speaker Romualdez,” Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.
"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,” it added.
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, a cousin of Marcos, 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.
Romualdez had earlier been linked to the controversy, though Malacanang stressed he would not be spared from investigation if evidence arises.
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 programmes. - Bernama-PNA
