By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Stressing that the P2.57 billion West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSUMC) in Iloilo City is another enduring legacy of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said the expansion project seeks to plant “the seeds for future excellence in healthcare education and delivery in the Visayas and beyond.”
The president’s cousin who heads the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives led the recent groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the WVSUMC in Iloilo City.
“This facility is poised to become a critical hub for medical training, addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals equipped to handle future health challenges,” Romualdez quipped.
The “historic” event was organized by House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos attended the event along with Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, House Committee on Appropriations chairperson and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, and several other lawmakers and government officials.
The Speaker from Leyte thanked Co and Garin for facilitating funding for the WVSU expansion project.
It was learned that the initial fund of P500 million was appropriated under the General Appropriations Act of 2023.
“This is teamwork, and this is all because of the direction set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” Romualdez said.
He added: “The well-being of Filipinos has always been a paramount concern, particularly highlighted by the recent COVID pandemic.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Surprised by the disparity between farmgate and retail prices of rice, poultry, meat products, onion, and other basic goods, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Wednesday (24 April 2024) said he will lead an investigation into the matter that primarily affects the farmers.
“The discrepancy between farmgate and retail prices of basic goods is alarming and warrants immediate attention. We cannot ignore the plight of our farmers who are struggling to make ends meet, nor can we turn a blind eye to the burden placed on consumers,” Romualdez noted.
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives said he would ask Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, chairperson of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, to “immediately start the ball rolling for an investigation into the disconnect between farm gate and retail prices of basic goods.”
On Tuesday (23 April 2024), Romualdez and House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo met producers, retailers, and grocery stores regarding the prices of basic commodities.
During the meeting, Jayson Cainglet of Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) told Romualdez that farmgate prices of rice, poultry, pork, and onions had not increased in the last three months.
The Speaker from Leyte vowed that the House would use its oversight function to look into the price discrepancies and committed to conduct a thorough review of existing laws to protect the interest of both consumers and producers and deter profiteering.
“It is imperative that we conduct a comprehensive review of our laws to ensure that they effectively safeguard the interests of our farmers and consumers. We must take proactive measures to prevent profiteering and promote a fair and transparent trading environment,” Romualdez stressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying that the Philippines is one of the beneficiaries of an $8.1 billion aid package from the US government intended for its Indo-Pacific allies, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday (23 April 2024) thanked the US House for the grant.
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives said the grant would benefit Filipinos amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
“This multifaceted assistance package reaffirms America’s steadfast commitment to promoting peace, prosperity, and security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,” Romualdez said in a statement.
It was gathered that the US House of Representatives recently approved the Indo-Pacific Supplemental Appropriations Act, granting an $8.1 billion emergency aid package to Taiwan, the Philippines, and other allies in the Indo-Pacific region.
Reports said US Rep. Darrell Issa introduced an amendment to the bill encouraging the US State Department to allocate $500 million in Foreign Military Financing to the Philippines.
The US Senate is expected to pass the measure next week, sending it to US President Joe Biden to sign into law.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The La Trinidad, Benguet local government has declared House Speaker Martin Romualdez as an adopted son in recognition of his noble intent and effort to support and visit the first-class municipality of around 140,000 people.
Aside from being an adopted son of the province, Romualdez has also been bestowed with the name Batakagan or Brightest Star, according to Resolution No. 69-2024 passed by the town council to that effect,
“Resolved as it is hereby resolved, to declare the House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Gomez Romualdez, as an adopted son of the Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet Province and bestowed with the name “Batakagan” (Brightest Star),” the resolution read.
“His noble intention and effort to visit and show support to the constituents of the municipality of La Trinidad deserve recognition worthy as a son,” it added.
Benguet Lone District Representative Eric Go Yap noted that even before the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) was conceptualized, Romualdez had been providing various forms of assistance to the people of the province.
During the said event, Romualdez led the launch of the Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) in which over 75,000 kilograms of rice were distributed to the residents.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By el Amigo
MANILA — In a significant acknowledgment of his leadership and influence, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. has been named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024.
“This recognition announced recently, highlights President Marcos’ commitment to advancing the interests of the Philippines and shaping its trajectory toward progress,” House Speaker Martin Romualdez said Friday (19 April 2024).
In a press statement issued from the Office of Speaker, Romualdez extended his heartfelt congratulations to President Marcos for this notable achievement.
The statement underscores President Marcos’ dedication to steering the nation towards a brighter future and his tangible contributions to various aspects of Filipino society.
President Marcos’ leadership has been characterized by strategic economic policies that have navigated the country through global uncertainties, ensuring stability and growth.
Furthermore, his unwavering stance on safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty amidst escalating tensions demonstrates his firm commitment to protecting the Filipino people.
Beyond economic and geopolitical considerations, President Marcos has shown genuine concern for the welfare of every Filipino, implementing initiatives aimed at addressing societal challenges and fostering inclusivity. His vision for a prosperous and harmonious Philippines resonates deeply with the aspirations of the nation.
Speaker Romualdez, in his capacity as Speaker of the House of Representatives, commended President Marcos for this well-deserved recognition and pledged unwavering support for his efforts to elevate the country to greater heights.
The statement emphasizes the importance of unity in realizing a future characterized by prosperity and inclusivity.
“President Marcos’ inclusion in Time Magazine’s list of influential individuals is a testament to his transformative leadership and the positive impact he has had on the Philippines. His continued leadership is expected to inspire and uplift the nation as it moves forward, ” the Speaker said.
“President Marcos’ recognition in Time Magazine’s prestigious list is a momentous occasion for the Philippines, signifying the nation’s presence on the global stage and the impact of its leaders on the world. Congratulations to President Marcos on this remarkable achievement, and may his leadership continue to guide the Philippines toward a prosperous and inclusive future!”
(IA/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — With the solid commitment of the United States and Japan to uphold Philippine interests in the West Philippine Sea, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Saturday (13 April 2024) said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. scored a “strategic victory” for the country.
Romualdez cited the Joint Vision Statement that U.S. President Joe Biden, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and President Marcos Jr. released following their historic trilateral meeting in Washington D.C. on Thursday (11 April 2024), expressing opposition against the aggressive conduct of China’s Coast Guard and fishing militia vessels in the WPS.
“President Marcos, Jr.’s steadfast leadership and diplomatic initiatives significantly advanced our country’s national interests, especially in upholding our sovereignty and safeguarding our territorial integrity, particularly in the West Philippine Sea,” said Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives.
The Speaker from Leyte pointed out that Marcos Jr. enjoys the full support of the House of Representatives for his efforts to protect “our nation’s interests in the West Philippine Sea and in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”
“The House of Representatives stands firmly behind President Marcos, Jr. and his diplomatic initiatives to uphold rules-based international order as the foundation of regional peace and prosperity,” Romualdez stressed.
He also expressed hopes the historic trilateral meeting would serve to de-escalate the simmering tensions in the WPS for the mutual benefit of all the stakeholders.
Political pundits told Maharlika NuMedia that Romualdez is likely the “anointed one” by PBBM for the 2028 presidential race.
They added that ACT-CIS party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo also looms as Romualdez’s running mate.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying that a cheaper and reliable electricity is important to spur development in an archipelago like the Philippines, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has expressed hope that this will soon be realized as President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. met American proponents of nuclear energy a few hours before the latter’s historic trilateral summit with United States President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington, DC.
On Friday (12 April 2024), the Speaker from Leyte disclosed that the nuclear power proponents were key executives of the Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC).
“This follow-up meeting would sustain the momentum of this game-changing cooperative venture and move us a step closer to the realization of President Marcos’ vision of providing adequate, reliable, and cheaper supply of electricity for all Filipinos,” Romualdez said.
He further said the meeting focused, among others, on the developments regarding USNC investment plans in the Philippines.
“Recognizing the vital importance of energy security to our aspirations for sustained growth and development and a better life for our people, the House of Representatives stands solidly behind President Marcos, Jr.’s endeavors to ensure ample, dependable, and reasonably-priced electricity,” Romualdez noted.
The presidential cousin and leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives recalled that on Nov. 22, 2023, the lower chamber of Congress approved House Bill (HB) No. 9293, or the “Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act.”
Last March 4, the House also approved HB No. 9876 or the “Philippine Nuclear Liability Act.”
It was during Romualdez’s watch as Speaker that the Special Committee on Nuclear Energy in the House was created.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Citing the importance of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as approximately $5 trillion worth of trade passes through the body of water annually, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has expressed hope for peaceful resolution in the disputed area as more members of the international community will join hands in the collective effort to ensure peace and stability in the region.
He noted that the WPS is comprised of more than 60 percent of global maritime trade and more than 22 percent of total global trade.
“The ability of nations to navigate freely is essential for trade, communication, and regional security. We trust that the meeting of the three leaders will prove productive in strengthening cooperation to safeguard this crucial right,” Romualdez said.
At the same time, the leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives on Thursday (11 April 2024) said he is crossing his fingers that the mounting calls from the international community for parties to adhere to rules-based order and freedom of navigation would ultimately lead to a simmering down of tension in the WPS.
He floated this thought even as President Marcos was scheduled to meet with United States (US) President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in a historic trilateral summit in Washington, DC.
Romualdez underscored that easing tension in the WPS would be of particular importance to many ordinary Filipino fishermen in the area whose livelihood was adversely affected by the security situation, particularly within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
(el Amigo)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — “Duyan ka ng magiting/Sa manlulupig, ‘di ka pasisiil.”
Taking to heart these lines from the Philippine national anthem, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday (9 April 2024) called on all Filipinos to unite in defending the country against encroachers as the nation commemorates the 82nd anniversary of “Araw ng Kagitingan.”
The Speaker from Leyte said the historic occasion should help Filipinos “reflect on the courage and bravery of our forebears who defended our freedom during the darkest chapters of our history.”
“Today, as we pay homage to their courage, we must also heed the invaluable lessons they impart. Defending Philippine sovereignty and territory is not merely a historical obligation; it is an ongoing responsibility that demands our unwavering commitment and vigilance,” Romualdez said.
To recall, “Araw ng Kagitingan” or The Day of Valor, in English, commemorates the heroism of Filipinos and American soldiers when the Japanese occupied the Philippines during World War II.
“It is crucial that we stand firm in protecting our nation’s borders and asserting our legitimate claims by international law. We must affirm our sovereignty over our land, seas, and airspace, resolutely rejecting any encroachment or infringement upon our territorial integrity,” Romualdez added, apparently referring to China’s continued harassment in the West Philippine Sea.
At the same time, Romualdez reminded Filipinos of the country’s “ongoing battle for freedom from poverty and inequality.”
“Just as our heroes fought for our nation’s physical borders, we must also strive to break the chains of poverty and uplift the less fortunate among us,” he said.
“Our commitment to freedom extends beyond territorial boundaries; it encompasses the liberation of our people from the shackles of poverty, hunger, and deprivation. We must stand united in the fight against poverty, extending a helping hand to the less fortunate and empowering them to build better lives for themselves and their families,” Romualdez stressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Several congressmen have acknowledged the proactive leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez which resulted in the “outstanding” performance of the House of Representatives.
House Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David Suarez said the House in the 19th Congress has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to legislative excellence.
“Under Speaker Romualdez’s guidance, the House has exemplified dedication and competence in fulfilling its legislative duties. His leadership has been instrumental in steering the chamber towards achieving legislative excellence,” said Suarez, a ranking leader of the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD).
Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. also noted that the vision and leadership of Romualdez have propelled the legislative chamber to address the nation’s challenges with diligence and determination.
“Speaker Romualdez’s commitment to serving the Filipino people has been unwavering,” Gonzales said.
For his part, House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe pointed out that under Romualdez’s leadership, the 19th Congress has been proactive and responsive to the challenges facing the nation.
“We commend the Speaker’s tireless efforts in leading us towards a brighter future for all Filipinos,” Dalipe said.
Gonzales Jr. and Cong Mannix are also stalwarts of Lakas-CMD.
It can be noted that the Lower Chamber has already approved all the 19 bills outlined in the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) and those identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) to be approved before the adjournment in June.
The Speaker from Leyte also initiated the conduct of inquiry on the price increases in onions, and rice, and the implementation of the law providing discounts to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Some Visayan political leaders are rooting for Romualdez to be the country’s first Waray-Waray president in 2028.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Acknowledging that the monstrous traffic jam in Metro Manila has wasted so much hours and money, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has come up with the permanent solution by tapping the private sector to help the government build skywalks along EDSA and other major roads.
The Speaker from Leyte issued the statement as he renewed his push for economic charter change (Eco Cha-Cha) to perk up the country’s economy and improve the quality of lives of Filipinos.
“Traffic is a big challenge to our economic growth. It is eating up a lot of precious man-hours, fuel, and money, which could be put to productive use. We have to expand our infrastructure. Maybe, we should build skyways along Edsa and other major roads with private financial support and participation,” Romualdez said.
On Friday (5 April 2024), Romualdez noted that the Philippines could sustain the economic growth experienced under the time of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., even as the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) brought down its expected growth range for 2024 from 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent, to 6 percent to 7 percent.
“I am confident that we can hit at least the lowest end of the target range because the economic policies and measures the President and Congress have taken and pursued are keeping us on the right track,” the leader of the 300-plus member of House of Representatives further said.
With the problems facing the agricultural sector due to the El Niño, Romualdez said the concerned agencies particularly the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, the National Irrigation Administration, and local government units (LGUs) should coordinate on how the farming sector could be assisted.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In line with the vision to assist the less privileged sectors of society, the office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has disclosed that the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BSPF) was in Oriental Mindoro early this month where a total of P1.2 billion in cash aid and government programs were given to residents.
In partnership with Tingog Partylist and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Romualdez also assisted the uniformed personnel in Oriental Mindoro.
“Ipinaaabot po ni Speaker Romualdez at ng Tingog Partylist ang kanilang taos-pusong pasasalamat sa serbisyong inyong hinahatid para sa pagtatanggol sa ating mga mamamayan,” said Deputy Secretary General Sofonias P. Gabonada Jr. who represented the Speaker.
Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Oriental Mindoro received food and cash assistance worth P600,000 through the efforts of the Speaker from Leyte.
Reports said in a simple turnover ceremony, both the 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army and the Region IV-B MIMAROPA Regional Police Office received P300,000 worth of assistance each: P200,000 worth of supplies such as rice, canned goods and noodles, and P100,000 in cash.
For the Philippine Army, Brig. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio received the assistance while for the PNP, Police Brig. Gen Kirby Brion Kraft accepted the aid.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Short of saying that the Chocolate Hills, a government-declared protected area in Sablayan, Bohol and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites has been deliberately “desecrated”, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has ordered a thorough investigation into the construction and operation of a resort on the famous tourist spot.
This was bared in a press conference by House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo who said the House leadership was dismayed over the construction and operation of a resort in Chocolate Hills.
“Hindi rin po nagustuhan ng House leadership po iyon. I’ve been communicating with the Speaker…napag-uusapan po at nasabi ko na po sa kanya, magpa-file po tayo ng inquiry regarding this matter,” Tulfo said.
He likened the resort in Chocolate Hills to a facial wart.
“Pag nasa aerial shots ka, ang pangit din, para siyang kulugo, di ba. Tumubong kulugo sa mukha mo, okay. So ang pangit ho eh kahit ano hong palusot,” he said.
Tulfo stressed that Romualdez wanted to know the agencies that granted the permit for the construction and operation of the resort.
“Ano hong ginawa ng LGU? Kaya hindi ho nila puwedeng hindi alam…ang dami pong sisisihin diyan eh, pati iyong provincial government, akalain mo nag-party pa pala sila kung hindi ba naman mga luko-luko,” he blurted out.
Tulfo noted that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its field personnel also have a lot of explaining to do why a resort was allowed to be built in Chocolate Hills without acquiring an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Putting to rest speculations of a Senate-House of Representatives rift, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday (08 March 2024) expressed confidence that the Upper Chamber under the leadership of Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri will pass in time the economic Charter change (Eco Cha-Cha).
“Ako naniniwala sa liderato ng Senado lalo kay SP Migz Zubiri na kakayanin niya lahat at ikukumbinsi nya lahat ng mga kasamahan nya sa Senado (na aprubahan ang RBH 6),” Romualdez said in a chance interview.
Zubiri earlier said that it would be a big challenge to approve the Senate Resolution of Both Houses 6, which seeks to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
“We understand the challenges but the Senate has always lived up to the challenge. Magaling yung mga senador natin and I know that they know what’s good for the people,” Romualdez added.
Senate’s RBH 6, which Zubiri authored, is pending before a subcommittee led by Sen. Sonny Angara.
On Wednesday (6 March 2024), the House Resolution of Both Houses 7 was already approved by the House Committee of the Whole.
Romualdez said the House aims to pass the measure on the third and final reading before the Holy Week recess starts on March 23.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — As the Senate seemingly foot-dragged in approving the economic reforms in the 37-year-old Constitution, the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez passed the economic charter change (Cha-Cha) after only six days of marathon deliberations.
On Wednesday, the House Committee of the Whole approved via voice vote Resolutions of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), which seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution by allowing increased foreign ownership of vital industries.
It was learned that the Charter amendments under RBH 7 provide for the easing of the 40%-foreign ownership limit on education, public utilities, and advertising sectors by adding the phrase “unless provided for by law.”
Former finance secretary Margarito Teves lauded the swift action of the House of Representatives.
“Foreign equity limitations in the Constitution are binding constraints to investors. As of 2022, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand have already surpassed us in terms of foreign direct investments,” Teves said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) also agreed with Teves that the RBH 7 will pump in much-needed foreign capital to address low wages and increase the productivity of the country’s labor force.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the collision incident Tuesday (05 March 2024) morning between a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel and a much bigger Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel during the latest Ayungin Shoal resupply mission to the grounded ship BRP Sierra Madre, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has reaffirmed the full support of the House of Representatives for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiative to continuously enhance the capabilities of the PCG and modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“We stand united in support of President Marcos, Jr.’s firm resolve to enhance our defense capabilities to uphold our country’s sovereignty and protect our national interest in the West Philippine Sea. The House of Representatives is solidly behind his decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to safeguarding our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Romualdez stressed.
In his keynote address at the Lowly Institute in Melbourne, Australia, Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will continue to upgrade the capabilities of the PCG and pursue the modernization of the AFP in line with his pronouncement that the Philippines shall never surrender even a square inch of its territory and maritime jurisdiction to any country.
Romualdez — who was part of the President’s official delegation to the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit — also expressed deep concern about the recent development in connection with the territorial dispute between the Philippines and China.
“The House of Representatives pledges its full cooperation in the legislative process to ensure the timely implementation of measures to strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard and modernize the AFP to bolster our country’s defense posture in the face of emerging challenges,” the House leader said.
The President has disclosed that he approved earlier this year the updated acquisition plan of the AFP called Re-Horizon 3, in line with the country’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
“The stability and prosperity of our region rely heavily on the principles of diplomacy and adherence to the rules-based order,” Romualdez pointed out.
He added: “The Philippines remains committed to pursuing diplomatic channels to address this issue and seeks to foster a relationship with China based on mutual respect and cooperation. We believe that by working together in a spirit of goodwill, we can achieve a peaceful and equitable resolution to our territorial dispute.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Good news for senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) as Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday (28 Feb 2024) said they can avail of a total of P500 monthly discount on groceries and other commodities starting next month.
In a statement, Romualdez said that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) could grant additional discounts for the elderly and PWDs by March, which are presently at P260 per month.
“We’re working so that the usual P65 per week discount for senior citizens and PWDs may be increased to P125,” DTI Undersecretary Carolina Sanchez confirmed.
Sanchez added that the DTI, Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Energy (DOE) will also release a joint issuance on the additional discount.
It was gathered that covered by the discounts are basic goods and prime commodities — or regular items consumed daily — such as rice, corn, bread, meat, fish, chicken, eggs, cooking oil, sugar, vegetables, fruits, onions, garlic, as well as fresh and processed milk.
Medical-grade milk is exempted.
Also covered by discounts are manufactured goods, such as processed meat, sardines, and corned beef.
However, Sanchez said premium brands, as well as premium items, including non-essential food such as cakes and pastries, are also exempted from the additional discount.
Senior citizens and PWDs lauded Romualdez as they also enjoyed additional discounts on basic construction supplies like cement, hollow blocks, and electrical supplies, including light bulbs.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Stressing that they want to dispel doubts that the House of Representatives intends to insert political amendments into the 37-year-old Constitution, Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday said the lower chamber would adopt the Senate’s proposed amendments to the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution under the upper chamber’s Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 (RBH6) “in toto.”
“To dispel doubts that the efforts of the House of Representatives in pushing for the amendment of the economic provisions of the Constitution are politically motivated, we are adopting all the three proposed amendments of the Senate version of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, in toto,” Romualdez declared.
RBH No. 6 seeks to amend certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution, particularly Articles XII, XIV, and XVI.
The constitutional provisions on public services, education, and the advertising industry would be amended by adding the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law.”
The Speaker from Leyte announced this during his opening remarks at the House Committee of the Whole’s first hearing on Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH7) which mirrored the constitutional amendments proposed by the Senate.
“This should assure the public that Congress only touches on the economic provisions that must adapt to the changing times. There is absolutely nothing in RBH 7 that hovers on any political provision of the Constitution,” Romualdez added.
He assailed the accusations against the House of Representatives, claiming they were against the “much-needed upgrade and facelift” of the economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution.
“Categorically, we are denying this unfounded accusation… Ito lamang ang pakay natin. Ekonomiya, hindi pulitika,” Romualdez pointed out.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez welcomed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the implementation of RA 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.
FDA recently issued a statement reminding establishments to follow Administrative Order No. 2012-0007 Part VI Section 3.1.
It stated that the 20 percent discount and VAT exemption can be used on generic and branded drugs, including Influenza and Pneumococcal vaccines.
The said discount also covers the vitamins and minerals supplements prescribed by the doctor to prevent and cure patients’ illnesses.
“Many of our seniors and PWDs need to regularly purchase supplements or vitamins to maintain their health and strengthen their resistance to diseases, so it’s only fitting to include these in the discounted items as well,” Romualdez said.
Earlier, Romualdez ordered the conduct of an investigation to see if establishments comply with giving discounts to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable sectors.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Crossing party lines, 30 congressmen from the National Capital Region (NCR) have declared their unequivocal support for Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez against “baseless accusations” related to amending the 1987 Constitution.
In a three-page “Statement of Solidarity,” the lawmakers said they are “standing firm with the Speaker from Leyte in upholding the rights enshrined in our Constitution,” adding that democracy’s cornerstone is people’s “immutable right to have their voices heard.”
“Let it be said, here and now, that we the undersigned Representatives from the National Capital Region denounce efforts to foment disunity in our nation! We call on all to respect each other’s positions and the voices of our citizens and their inalienable right to be heard,” the statement read.
The NCR legislators also pointed out Romualdez’s dedication to serving all districts impartially, without political bias.
“Hearing the clamor of our constituents, we express our undaunted support for Speaker Romualdez who champions the efforts of the public for a lively discourse on the issues besetting the future of our Republic,” they stressed.
The Metro Manila solons, in signing their joint manifesto, described Romualdez as the “Speaker for all and a Speaker of the Nation!”
The signatories were Caloocan Representatives Oscar Malapitan, Mary Mitzi Cajayon-Uy, and Dean Asistio; Makati City Representatives Romulo Pena Jr. and Luis Campos Jr.; Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, Mandaluyong City Rep. Neptali Gonzales II; and Pasay Rep. Antonino Calixto; Manila Representatives Ernesto Dionisio Jr., Rolando Valeriano, Joel Chua, Edward Vera Perez Maceda, Irwin Tieng and Bienvenido Abante; Quezon City Representatives Juan Carlos Atayde, Ralph Wendel Tulfo, Franz Pumaren, Marvin Rillo, Patrick Michael Vargas, and Ma. Victoria Co-Pilar; Taguig-Pateros Representatives Ricardo Cruz Jr. and Amparo Maria Zamora; San Juan Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora, Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo; Marikina Representatives Marjorie Anne Teodoro, Stella Luz Quimbo; Paranaque Representatives Edwin Olivarez and Gus Tambunting; and Muntinlupa Rep. Jaime Fresnedi.
(el Amigo/MNM)