MANILA — In a heartfelt announcement, Representative Zaldy Co of Ako Bicol Partylist on Monday (13 Jan 2025) confirmed his decision to step down as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, citing pressing health concerns as the primary reason for his resignation.
Co expressed his deep gratitude to his colleagues in Congress for their understanding and support in accepting his decision.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the majority in Congress for graciously accepting my decision to step down as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. This decision, made with a heavy heart, is driven by pressing health concerns,” Rep. Co said in his statement. “The highly demanding nature of my role has taken its toll, and I now need to prioritize seeking the medical attention necessary for my well-being.”
As the former Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Co had a pivotal role in shaping the national budget, ensuring its alignment with the country’s economic priorities.
Reflecting on his time in office, he expressed pride in the accomplishments achieved during his tenure, particularly in the implementation of welfare programs like the Ayuda sa Kapos and Kita Program, which provided essential support to families facing financial hardship.
Co also highlighted his key role in securing the budgets for 2023, 2024, and 2025, ensuring that they aligned with the President’s eight-point economic agenda. His leadership in securing funding for critical sectors such as health, housing, and food security — particularly for legacy hospitals and contract farming initiatives — stood out as significant milestones of his tenure.
“I have always served at the pleasure of the majority. I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with the immense responsibility of steering the nation’s budget in service of the House of the people and the constituents we represent,” Co said, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him.
Despite his decision to step down from the committee chairmanship, Co remains committed to his duties as a member of the House of Representatives and will continue to serve his constituents.
“I take pride in what we have accomplished together in these past three years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such meaningful work. Thank you for this extraordinary privilege to serve,” he added.
The House leadership has yet to announce a replacement for the position, but Co’s departure marks the end of an era of influential budgeting leadership in the Philippine Congress.
Rep. Co’s decision to prioritize his health underscores the importance of personal well-being in the demanding world of public service, as he steps back from his high-profile role to focus on recovery.
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