By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Actively leading the distribution of cash assistance and rice to some 3,000 Siquijor residents, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Sunday disclosed that the House of Representatives under his leadership has been taking actions to bring down the price of the country’s staple food.
Maharlika NuMedia learned that the distribution of P1,000 worth of rice and P1,000 cash assistance was facilitated under the Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program, a joint initiative of the Speaker and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“Binuo natin ang programang CARD upang manatiling abot-kamay ang bigas sa ating mga kababayan, partikular dito ang mga matatanda, mga may-kapansanan at iba pang mga sektor na disadvantaged. Ngayong araw, hindi lang kayo tatanggap ng bigas, tatanggap din kayo ng tulong-pinansyal na maaaring gamiting puhunan para sa inyong kabuhayan,” Romualdez told the Siquijor residents converged at Siquijor provincial capitol.
The House leader from Leyte noted that rice serves as a staple in every Filipino’s diet and “no Filipino meal is complete without rice.”
“That is why we at the House of Representatives have gone to great lengths to ensure that this staple remains within the reach of the common Filipino,” Romualdez said during the launching of the CARD program.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — While the Senate and the House of Representatives have to finalize the mode of effecting charter change (Cha-Cha), Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has admitted that it could also be an opportunity to amend portions of the Constitution to strengthen the country’s territorial integrity.
Talks of Cha-Cha resurfaced after Romualdez and Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. confirmed that the House leadership intended to tackle charter change proposals by early 2024.
“That’s why we will exhaust all means — not only to open up the Constitution to further encourage more foreign direct investments so that more jobs [and] livelihood would be created in the country, giving better lives and livelihood to all Filipinos, but we shall also further the ends of our interest internationally by enforcing our territorial integrity,” Romualdez said.
He added that Cha-Cha is aimed to materialize the turnover of investment pledges from foreign businesses secured from foreign trips of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Romualdez said he believes that amending the Constitution would open up the economy.
On Tuesday, December 19, Romualdez revealed in an interview with Radyo 630 that Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri will support moves to amend the Constitution through a people’s initiative or PI.
The Speaker from Leyte said Zubiri is amenable with PI — one of the three charter change methodologies available in the country. The other two are Constitutional Assembly (Con-Ass) and Constitutional Convention (Con-Con).
(IA/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — More political leaders were joining the Lakas Christian-Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday, July 13, and no less than former president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has graced the oath-taking ceremonies of the new members.
FPGMA, who is also Lakas Chairperson Emeritus, has welcomed the three lawmakers and the 18 mayors from Zamboanga del Sur into the new ruling party.
As Lakas-CMD president, Romualdez personally administered the oath of lawmakers Divine Grace Yu (Zamboanga del Sur, First District) and Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo (Lanao del Norte, First District), who both bolted from the PDP-Laban faction of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, and former National Unity Party (NUP) Congresswoman Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan (Lapu-Lapu City, Lone District).
Lakas-CMD party’s numbers in the House of Representatives have now increased to 92.
“We are pleased to welcome Reps. Divine Grace Cindi and Khalid to Lakas-CMD. Our shared ideals of service to the people and being responsive to the needs of the country unite us all. Our commitment to supporting President Marcos Jr. and his legislative agenda also binds us,” Romualdez said.
Eighteen mayors from Zamboanga del Sur also took their oath as members of the Lakas-CMD namely: Silvano Zanoria (Aurora), Gerry Paglinawan (Dumingag), Catalino Adapon (Josefina), Manuel Saladaga (Mahayag), Elmer M. Soronio (Midsalip), Cyril Reo Glepa (Molave), Margie A. Machon (Ramon Magsaysay), Johnriel Melo (Sominot), Macario Tingson (Tukura), Avelino Yrauda (Dimataling), Eleazar Asoy (Dinas), Domingo Mirrar (Lakewood), Joel Sulong (Lapuyan), Alejandro Agua III (Margosatubig), James Yecyec (Pitogo), Ex Ocapan (San Miguel), Anthony Dayondon (Tabina), and Eleazar Carcallas (Tigbao).
“We also welcome our new members from Zamboanga del Sur. Let us continue working for the welfare of the Filipino people, for the growth of the Philippine economy, and for the protection of the sovereignty of our country. Sama-sama nating ipakita ang ating pagmamahal sa bayan bilang isang nagkakaisang partido,” the House Speaker from Leyte added.
The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Social Hall of the Office of the Speaker at Batasan Complex in Quezon City.
Aside from FPGMA, among those who witnessed the “historic event” were House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe, Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales, Jr., along with Lakas Secretary General and Agusan del Norte Rep. Jose Aquino II.
Political pundits told Maharlika NuMedia that the “body language” of FPGMA suggests that despite her perceived closeness with Vice President Sara Duterte, the Pampanga solon will stick it out with Lakas-CMD and will eventually support Romualdez as its party standard bearer in 2028.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Brushing off rumors of infighting in the UniTeam, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has exhorted his party mates, including former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, to continue supporting the administration of his cousin President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
On Saturday (December 9), some political analysts told Maharlika NuMedia that Romualdez has demonstrated his statesmanship when he focuses his efforts on having a proactive House of Representatives and does not waste his energy in entertaining petty political insults and intrigues.
Romualdez, who heads the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) that produced two presidents Macapagal Arroyo and the late Fidel V, Ramos, underscored the party’s commitment to continue working with President Marcos “on nation-building to champion people’s interest and spread kindness.”
House leaders earlier said Marcos Jr.’s pursuit of peace is “a historic move” that marks a “pivotal moment in our nation’s journey towards lasting peace and sustainable development.”
“President Marcos’ call for peace transcends political boundaries and speaks to the core of our shared values as Filipinos. It is a call for understanding, cooperation, and collective action towards a future where every citizen can live in harmony and prosperity,” they said in a statement.
However, Vice President Sara Duterte publicly opposed the major policy decision of the President despite her being a member of the Cabinet, calling the recent agreement on reopening peace talks with the National Democratic Front by the Marcos Administration a “deal with the devil.”
Former Senator Leila de Lima has since dared VP Duterte to resign as Education Secretary and stay away from the Cabinet of PBBM.
A known critic of VP Sara’s father former President Rodrigo Duterte, the feisty former lady senator recently gained temporary freedom after almost seven years of incarceration when a Muntinlupa court allowed her to post bail amounting P300,000.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Stressing his strong support for the Marcos Jr.’s administration’s peace initiatives with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez is now at loggerheads with Vice President Sara Duterte who blatantly described the move as an “agreement with the devil” in her first public display of undermining the country’s Commander-in-Chief.
The Speaker who is also Leyte’s 1st District Representative echoed the call of his first-degree cousin President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for support for the renewed peace negotiations following the signing of the joint communique between the government and the NDFP in Oslo.
“Bakit tayo matatakot makipag-usap kung alam nating malakas ang ating Sandatahang Lakas at matatag ang ating Republika? Ano ang ikababahala natin kung alam natin na nasa pamahalaan ang tiwala ng bayan?” Romualdez said.
He added: “In this pursuit, we must all come together—government, civil society, and every Filipino—to support this peace process. It is through our collective efforts and unwavering commitment to peace that we can overcome the barriers of the past and build a stronger, more united Philippines.”
With this latest development, political analyst Ronald Llamas said VP Duterte has, in effect, “red-tagged” the President for issuing a major policy decision on peace negotiations with communist rebels and thereby agitating the military to oust their Commander-in-Chief.
In his interview with Facts First podcast hosted by Christian Esguerra, the presidential adviser for political affairs of then President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III said VP Sara’s open rebuke of Marcos Jr on peace talks was “unusual but not surprising” considering that they belong to different political parties.
He noted that last month, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. revealed that some former military officers were behind destabilization attempts against the administration of President Marcos Jr.
“After niyan, bagamat dineny ni ex-president Duterte ang kanyang role dito ay inamin niya na isa siya sa mga kumakausap ng mga retired military officers at after nu’n ay nagwarning pa siya sa gobyerno na di ko kayo tinatakot pero matyagan nyo ang mga military atsaka pulis dahil itong mga komunista ay parang mga kaalyado nyo na dito sa Kongreso lalo sa pagbatikos sa aking anak, the vice president, sa kanyang intelligence and confidential funds,” Llamas said.
He said the infighting in the UniTeam has reached to the “highest level.”
“Imadyinin mo nire-red tag ngayon ang President Marcos. Marcos ang pangalan ha? Ganun na katindi ang bakbakan,” Llamas said.
(AI/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Three ranking members of the PDP-Laban faction of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and one from former Senate President Manny Villar’s Nacionalista Party (NP) have defected to the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) headed by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
On Tuesday, November 21, Romualdez administered the oath to Representatives Rosemarie Conejos Panotes (Camarines Norte, 2nd District), Dale B. Corvera (Agusan del Norte, 2nd District), Lordan G. Suan (Cagayan de Oro, 1st District), and Mary Mitzi Cajayon-Uy (Caloocan, 2nd District) as new Lakas-CMD members at the Social Hall of the Office of the Speaker at the Batasan Complex in Quezon City.
Panotes, Corvera, Cajayon-Uy, and Mayor Robes were former members of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino – Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) while Suan was from the Nacionalista Party (NP).
Witnessing the event were Majority Leader Manuel Jose ‘Mannix’ Dalipe and Lakas-CMD Secretary General Rep. Jose “Joboy” Aquino 2nd (Agusan del Norte, 1st District).
Seemingly unaffected by the “snubbing” of Vice President Sara Duterte, the Speaker warmly welcomed the new members of Lakas-CMD.
“Our heartfelt welcome to our new members. We are delighted and excited to have you on board. With your exceptional skills, experience, and dedication, we look forward to the unique contributions and perspectives you will bring to Lakas-CMD to help the Marcos administration champion people’s interests,” the Leyte representative said.
He added: “Your commitment to serving the Filipino people will play a major role in the continued success of Lakas-CMD and positively impact our constituents nationwide. We will support and take care of you, and please do not hesitate to reach out to the party leadership.”
On Monday evening, VP Duterte was caught in a video walking past Romualdez at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City to shake the hands of an official who was part of the Philippine delegation, along with the Speaker.
The Vice President welcomed the Philippine delegation that joined President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his three-leg trip to the United States last week.
“Oh, Hindi ko nakita… Hindi ko nakita yung nasa social media. Di ako maka comment… Wala ako nakita,” VP Duterte quipped in Ian Cruz’s report on “24 Oras” on Tuesday when asked about the supposed snubbing incident.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME, so to speak, and as Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez turned 60 years old on Tuesday he gifted the employees of the lower chamber with “salary improvements” and unveiled various planned infrastructure projects within Batasan Complex.
On Monday, November 13, eve of Romualdez’s 60th birthday, the Speaker expressed his gratitude to some 200 House workers in his speech after the flag-raising rites.
“Your hard work, dedication, and resilience are the driving forces behind our remarkable achievements. Let us continue to work hand in hand, with integrity and commitment, as we steer this House towards greater heights,” the Leyte 1st district congressman told the House employees.
But his following announcement quite literally brought the House down.
“In our ongoing efforts, we have successfully implemented salary improvements that honor your invaluable contributions to our legislative work. These adjustments are a testament to our recognition of your hard work and dedication. Furthermore, we have continuously worked on enriching your benefits package,” Romualdez said which was met by thunderous applause.
He also disclosed the construction of a permanent secretariat building which the Speaker described as “a testament to our commitment to providing a stable and conducive work environment for our staff.”
“In the realm of technology, we are undergoing a network modernization project. This upgrade will not only enhance our digital infrastructure but also ensure that we stay connected and efficient in this rapidly evolving digital age,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker added that the House is also establishing the Institute for Legislation and Legislative Governance, which would “serve as a beacon of knowledge and learning, enriching our understanding and skills in legislation and governance”.
He further noted the ongoing construction of a permanent warehouse, which will store and manage House resources.
“We have also not forgotten the importance of health and wellness. A state-of-the-art sport and fitness center, including a basketball court, is in the works. This facility will provide a space for physical activity and relaxation, promoting a healthy work-life balance,” Romualdez declared.
When asked about his birthday wish, the president of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) who heads the 316-strong House of Representatives composed of 253 from congressional districts and 63 party-list representatives, replied: “I dedicate the rest of my life serving you better. At 60 years old, I want to dedicate more of my time in serving [the Filipino] better.”
Consistently improving his trust and performance rating in various surveys, Romualdez, who’s a first cousin of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is widely believed to be the administration standard bearer in the 2028 presidential race five years from now.
(AI/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
DESPITE HER RECENT CONGRATULATORY remarks on the high trust rating of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo may still lose her post as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives if she does not dare to openly assail former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for calling the lower chamber as “the most rotten institution.”
Unconfirmed rumors swirled at the House of Representatives that Isabela Rep. Tonypet Albano will likely fill in the anticipated vacancy in the Deputy Speaker post if FPGMA remains silent and her loyalty to the institution that she’s a member of also remains “dubious”.
“I would like to congratulate House Speaker and Lakas President Martin Romualdez on the recent OCTA Research Report reflecting a +6% increase in Trust Rating to 60%,” FPGMA said in a statement last November 2.
Macapagal-Arroyo’s congratulatory remarks on Romualdez caught many by surprise as the former president is widely known to be the political mentor of Vice President Sara Duterte who is also casting a moist eye on the 2028 presidency.
But she still reportedly refused to join the House leadership in condemning FPRRD for maligning the lower chamber and even threatening ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro whom he accused as “communist”.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
ACKNOWLEDGING THE FEAT of his cousin President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in facilitating the signing of four agreements totaling around $4.26 billion between Saudi and Filipino businessmen, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Saturday said the deal promises to have a significant impact on the Philippine economy and the lives of Filipinos.
The four (4) investment agreements are accordingly expected to generate more than 15,000 jobs for Filipinos.
“The signing of these agreements which promises a far-reaching impact on the Philippine economy and on the lives of our workers is a monumental achievement of President Marcos,” said Romualdez, who accompanied PBBM on the trip to Saudi Arabia.
On Friday, October 20, the House Speaker disclosed that the signed agreements were between the Al-Jeer Human Resources Company (ARCO) and the Association of Philippine Licensed Agencies for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (US $3.765 billion); Al Rushaid Petroleum Investment Company and Samsung Engineering NEC Co. Ltd., and Filipino firm EEI Corporation (US $120 million); Maharah Human Resources Company of Saudi and Filipino firms Staffhouse International Resources Corporation and E-GMP International Corporation (US $191 million each).
“This is the fruit of his tireless efforts in fostering economic ties with our partners in the international community and exemplifies his commitment to securing a brighter future for the Filipino people in line with his vision for a prosperous and globally competitive Philippines,” Romualdez pointed out.
He also said the House of Representatives under his leadership “will remain steadfast in its support of the administration’s initiatives to ensure that the benefits are felt by all Filipinos.”
“In a time when job creation and economic growth are paramount, this achievement will provide invaluable opportunities for our workforce, particularly for our overseas Filipino workers,” Romualdez stressed. (ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
SAYING THAT THERE’S TOO MUCH SPECULATION, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has denied that the House of Representatives’ decision to strip Vice President Sara Duterte of her confidential funds for 2024 was aimed to derail her anticipated presidential run in 2028.
In a hastily called press conference on Thursday, October 5, Romualdez justified the House move, saying that even VP Duterte confidently told lawmakers that her office could live without confidential funds.
“That’s a bit too much speculation,” Romualdez maintained. “Under the circumstances, we felt it would be best that [the funds] be realigned to agencies and departments or areas we consider a priority.”
The Vice President who also sits as concurrent Education Secretary is requesting P650 million in combined confidential funds for the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) for 2024.
But the House of Representatives led by Romualdez decided to realign those funds to agencies protecting the West Philippine Sea.
Despite Romualdez’s denial, some political observers could not help but comment that the Speaker would not want Duterte to look like an underdog as Filipinos have a penchant for rooting for the perceived persecuted.
It can be noted that the gloves were taken off as early as May when suddenly former president and current Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was demoted from Senior Deputy House Speaker to a mere Deputy House Speaker.
Duterte subsequently resigned from Lakas-CMD headed by Romualdez and drew the first blood, so to speak, when in late May she posted a photo of herself with the cryptic caption, “Sa imong ambisyon, do not be tambaloslos.” (In your ambition, do not be tambaloslos.)
Among Visayans, “tambaloslos” refers to a greedy mythical creature that has a large mouth and leads people astray.
Many political pundits believe that Inday Sara was referring to Martin Romualdez.
In June, Duterte also deliberately refused to mention PBBM’s middle name – Romualdez – during an event, which some of the Speaker’s allies felt insulted.
This early, however, many Visayans are rooting for Romualdez to succeed his first cousin President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in 2028.
Romualdez hails from Leyte and could be the first Waray to become the country’s fourth Visayan president after Sergio Osmeña Sr. of Cebu, Manuel Acuña Roxas of Capiz and Carlos Polistico Garcia of Bohol. (ai/mnm)