By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Members of the “Young Guns” bloc on Monday (December 30, 2024) praised the 19th Congress’ House of Representatives for its remarkable legislative productivity under the unifying leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.

“The numbers speak volumes about the commitment of this Congress to making a difference. From the filing of 13,454 measures to the enactment of 166 Republic Acts, this reflects the hard work, dedication, and focus of all 307 House members in addressing the needs of the Filipino people,” the Young Guns stated.

Among the Young Guns leaders are Reps. Jay Khonghun (Zambales), Paolo Ortega V (La Union), Zia Alonto Adiong (Lanao del Sur), Jil Bongalon (Ako Bicol Party-list), Rodge Gutierrez (1-Rider Party-list), Pammy Zamora (Taguig), Margarita “Migs” Nograles (PBA Party-list), Cheeno Miguel Almario (Davao Oriental), Ernesto “Ernix” Dionisio Jr. (Manila), Lordan Suan (Cagayan de Oro City), Mikaela “Mika” Suansing (Nueva Ecija), and Inno Dy V (Isabela).

The bloc attributed the historic achievements to the collective efforts of the 19th Congress, citing Speaker Romualdez’s leadership as the driving force behind a collaborative environment that enabled lawmakers to deliver results.

“Every member of this Congress, regardless of district or party affiliation, worked tirelessly to ensure that every measure passed uplifts the lives of our constituents. This is governance in action,” they emphasized.

Record-Breaking Productivity

From July 25, 2022, to December 27, 2024, the House filed 13,454 measures, including 11,241 bills and 2,212 resolutions, with 1,319 committee reports submitted. It processed 4,760 measures in 178 session days, averaging 12 measures per session day.

“Processing an average of 12 measures per session day reflects this Congress’ unparalleled commitment to legislative excellence,” the bloc noted. “The passage of 166 Republic Acts—73 national and 93 local laws—proves that the Filipino people are at the heart of everything we do.”

Investigative Efforts and Legislative Reforms

The Young Guns commended the critical role of House committees in uncovering systemic issues and crafting responsive legislation.

They highlighted the Quad Comm’s marathon hearings on topics such as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the illicit drug trade, land grabbing by Chinese nationals, and extrajudicial killings linked to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

“These hearings exposed how POGOs facilitated money laundering, fueled the illegal drug trade, and enabled unlawful land acquisitions. Most chillingly, they revealed a troubling pattern of extrajudicial killings that underscored impunity and abuse of power,” the Young Guns said.

Findings from these investigations spurred calls for stricter gaming regulations, stronger financial crime prevention measures, and greater protection of national interests and human rights.

The House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability also investigated the alleged misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education under Vice President Sara Duterte.

The Quinta Comm, or “Murang Pagkain Super Committee,” was lauded for addressing smuggling, price manipulation, and inefficiencies in government programs aimed at combating hunger and stabilizing food prices.

“This ‘super committee’ has been a key force in holding market abusers accountable and ensuring government programs truly benefit the people,” the bloc added.

Sustaining Momentum

As the 19th Congress enters its final stretch, the Young Guns reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining its legislative momentum.

“Every productive session reflects countless hours spent in committee hearings, exposing inefficiencies and crafting solutions that serve the people,” they stressed. “The achievements of this Congress go beyond numbers. They represent hope, progress, and a commitment to nation-building that will leave a lasting legacy.”

The Young Guns underscored Speaker Romualdez’s pivotal role in uniting the chamber and achieving these milestones. “He has set the gold standard for leadership—one that inspires us to continue working harder for the Filipino people,” they concluded.

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