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)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Responding to the clamor of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) members, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday vowed to help increase PhilHealth coverage in private hospitals by at least 50% on bill payments.

The Speaker from Leyte said he would discuss with PhilHealth and Department of Health (DOH) officials the expansion of member benefits, addressing the public’s plea for better coverage.

“Marami ang nagtatanong sa atin kung puwedeng dagdagan ang sasagutin ng PhilHealth sa billing at doctors’ fees kapag private ang kinuha na k’warto o sa pay ward,” Romualdez revealed.

The president of the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) expressed concern that the major complaint of patients, especially the indigent ones, is that PhilHealth is only shouldering 15% to 20% of hospital bills in hospitals and private medical institutions, especially if they are admitted in private wards.

Regarding professional fees of physicians and medical specialists, the Speaker said he received complaints that PhilHealth only subsidizes 30% for private hospital patients.

“Hindi naman lahat na naa-admit sa ospital ay nasa free o charity ward. Mabilis kasi maubos ang mga charity beds. Hiling ng mga tao na kalahati ng bill nila sana kapag na-admit sa private ay sagutin ng PhilHealth para kalahati na lang ang bayaran ng miyembro,” Romualdez said.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Crediting Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s leadership for the House of Representatives’ approval of bills that propel economic growth, create job opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for Filipinos, lawmakers of the ruling Lakas-CMD including former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, have issued a manifesto of support to the presidential cousin and representative from Leyte.

The House leaders also defended Romualdez from what they called “unfounded criticism” over the People’s Initiative (PI) to amend the 1987 Constitution.

“We, the members of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) in the House of Representatives, stand united in our resolve to defend the integrity of our esteemed Speaker, the Honorable Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, against the unfounded criticisms levied upon him in the context of the People’s Initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution,” the manifesto said.

In a press conference, House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, Lakas-CMD executive vice president, said the manifesto was created and signed by the members to uphold the principles of democracy.

“We express our unwavering support for Speaker Martin Romualdez, recognizing his leadership and commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance. The allegations against him, centered around the People’s Initiative, are baseless and do not reflect the true nature of his service to the nation,” the manifesto added.

It further stressed: “With him (Romualdez) at the helm, the House has adopted a more activist role in nation-building, exemplified by our intensified oversight function, combating economic disparities and supporting the government’s efforts against drug trafficking and other societal challenges.”

At the same time, the manifesto expressed their support for Charter change (Cha-Cha).

“Our support for the democratic processes, including those that allow for constitutional amendments, is unwavering. We believe in the power of the Constitution as a living document, one that must evolve with the changing needs of our nation,” the manifesto also said.

The manifesto reiterated a call for unity and an end to political bickering.

“We advocate for unity among all branches of government and call for constructive dialogue over divisive politics. The focus should be on collaboration and understanding to achieve the best outcomes for our country,” the manifesto said.

“In conclusion, we reiterate our support for Speaker Martin Romualdez and emphasize our role as advocates of democratic governance. We call upon all sectors to engage in respectful and productive dialogue and to work together for the betterment of our nation,” the manifesto concluded.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Saying that his meeting with the proponents of People’s Initiative (PI) was only as a “facilitator for healthy democratic processes,” House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday vehemently denied involvement in the reported vote-buying to gather signatures favoring charter change (Cha-Cha) through PI.

“The meeting with the People’s Initiative representatives was an exercise in this commitment. My role, as misinterpreted by some, is not as an orchestrator but as a facilitator for healthy democratic processes,” Romualdez stressed in a statement.

Earlier his cousin, Senator Imee Marcos, played video clips and news reports pointing to Romualdez and members of the House of Representatives as the ones behind the ongoing PI.

“I firmly deny any allegations of involvement in unlawful activities such as vote-buying related to this or any other initiative. Such practices are against my principles and the ethical standards of our government,” Romualdez maintained.

He claimed that representatives from the PI, including Noel Oñate, approached him for a meeting held in his townhouse.

“It is crucial to clarify that while I support the spirit of civic engagement and participatory governance, my involvement in the People’s Initiative has been purely advisory and in no way extends to mobilizing or leading their signature campaign. The initiative and its operations are entirely led and managed by the group themselves,” the Speaker emphasized.

He further said the public and the media should approach the issue of PI with an “understanding of the distinct roles” and “to avoid conflating support for civic discourse with direct involvement in specific initiatives.”

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Stressing that children are keenly observing the nation’s leaders, House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday appealed to his cousin Sen. Imee Marcos to avoid foul language after the latter’s impassioned remark against proponents of the people’s initiative (PI).

“The phrase ‘Walang gamot sa kakapalan ng mukha mo’, as expressed by Senator Marcos, reflects a passionate stance on issues we both care deeply about… Ang pakiusap ko lang kay Sen. Imee, hindi po kailangan ng bastusan. Pinakikinggan tayo ng mga kabataan at hindi magandang ehemplo ang ganito,” Romualdez told his cousin Sen. Marcos.

The lady senator from Ilocos Norte has openly accused the House leader from Leyte of orchestrating the PI, which for the Senate would undermine them in future Charter change (Cha-Cha) efforts.

Sen. Marcos’ remark was seen as a terse reply to Romualdez’s earlier statement that the Senate had no business preventing the ongoing PI.

Romualdez also vehemently denied initiating the campaign.

Sen. Marcos is believed to be the probable vice presidential teammate of Vice President Sara Duterte if the latter runs for president in 2028.

“Tapusin na po natin ang bangayan. Magtrabaho na lamang po tayo. Para na rin sa kapakanan ng mga kapwa natin Pilipino.” Romualdez concluded.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez has urged the public to join the Bagong Pilipinas kickoff this Sunday (28 Jan 2024) at Quirino Granstand.

“I encourage everyone to join and support the Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally this Sunday. This event marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward a better Philippines, not just for us but, more importantly, for our children,” Romualdez said.

“Unity has always been the bedrock of any successful endeavor, and in the pursuit of a better future for our country, it becomes even more crucial,” he added.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is expected to lead the event tonight, highlighting “Bagong Pilipinas” as a call for deep and fundamental transformation in all sectors of society and government to foster a unified commitment towards nation-building as he is expected to urged everyone to embody the characteristics of a “Bagong Pilipino.”

A “Bagong Pilipino” is the one who pursues excellence, innovation, and progress in their daily routine.

“Bagong Pilipinas is an overarching theme of the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, characterized by a principled, accountable and dependable government reinforced by unified institutions of society,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — It’s more than a rally and concert.

This was the gist of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’s statement as he described the Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally on Sunday (28 Jan 2024).

Romualdez said the event, “marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward a better Philippines, not just for us but, more importantly, for our children.”

He added that his cousin President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has already emphasized the significance of individual resolutions in contributing to the broader goals of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign.

“Unity has always been the bedrock of any successful endeavor, and in the pursuit of a better future for our country, it becomes even more crucial,” Romualdez pointed out.

For the Speaker from Leyte, unity in diversity will serve as a key towards progress.

“The Bagong Pilipinas campaign is a call for unity, a rallying cry for every Filipino to come together, transcending differences and working hand in hand for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow,” Romualdez stressed.

For his part, Albay Representative Joey Salceda said Bagong Pilipinas was more than a slogan.

He described Bagong Pilipinas as a program of government that reflects the Marcos Jr. administration’s direction to modernization.

“This is reflected in the kind of policies he (the President) has prioritized,” Salceda quipped.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — “Wala kayong pakialam sa PI!’

This was the terse reply of Speaker Martin Romualdez on Friday to senators’ “very toxic rhetoric” against him and the House of Representatives in connection with the ongoing signature campaign for People’s Initiative (PI) to amend the 1987 Constitution

In a press conference, Romualdez zeroed in on the sluggish performance of the upper chamber in passing the priority legislation of the Marcos Jr. administration.

“Tapos na ang trabaho ng House of Representatives. Tapos na lahat ng assignment. Iyong senador, hindi pa tapos. Tapusin niyo ang trabaho niyo. Naghihintay ang mga Pilipino. Kadugay (you’re slow),” Romualdez said in exasperation.

“Kadugay” is the Visayan term for overdue.

The Speaker from Leyte was asked by reporters why the scheduled Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting on Thursday (January 25) was postponed.

Romualdez cited the speedy House approval of most of the priority bills of the administration, with only four pending as of this month.

Ironically, Romualdez’s cousin, Senator Imee Marcos, has accused him of going against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s wishes not to pursue PI.

She also alleged that the Speaker was the “brains” behind the PI move.

“Wala kayong pakialam sa PI (people’s initiative),” Romualdez responded. “Trabaho ‘yan ng taumbayan. Ang Congress at senator, ang trabaho, legislation. PI is power of the people,” Romualdez retorted.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Short of saying that it’s all intrigue, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday (26 Jan 2024) said Vice President Sara Duterte should not listen to “marites,” including a “female senator,” apparently referring to his cousin Senator Imee Marcos.

“Kung nakikinig siya (VP Duterte) sa mga marites, or kung kaninong senadora diyan, that’s up to her, but maski paano may pinagsamahan din kami dati,” Romualdez quipped.

The leader of the 316-member House of Representatives maintained that he fully supports the Vice President and Education Secretary despite an alleged rift between the former UniTeam allies.

“On my part, I have not attacked any ally of this administration… I respect the vice president as my vice president, as my secretary of education. She has my full support. I don’t know what I have said or done to attack her,” Romualdez stressed.

Rumors on the alleged rift surfaced during the budget season when the House of Representatives stripped the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and Department of Education (DepEd) of a combined P650 million in proposed confidential funds in the 2024 national budget.

The beneficiaries of the House’s realignment of the confidential funds from OVP and DepEdP include the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (P300 million), the National Security Council (P100 million), and the Philippine Coast Guard (P200 million).

“I wish her nothing but all the best. I respect her and sa totoo lang po nami-miss ko siya kasi dati parati kami magkasama,” Romualdez pointed out.

The Speaker from Leyte served as Inday Sara’s campaign manager during the 2022 election.

Last January 16, Sen. Marcos admitted her rift with Romualdez, which she said stemmed from her decision to side with the Dutertes in the tiff with the House of Representatives.

“Si Speaker, alam ko may tampo sa akin mula pa October. Bakit ako kumakampi sa mga Duterte? Sabi ko hindi ako kumakampi. Sa akin lang kasamahan natin ‘yan, kaalyado natin ‘yan. Higit sa lahat, kaibigan na wala namang ginagawang masama, bakit natin aawayin?” the lady senator from Ilocos Norte said.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Denying rumors circulating in social media that PMA (Philippine Military Academy) alumni and other groups of AFP retirees were linked to destabilization moves against the Marcos administration, four major organizations of retired military generals met with presidential cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday (22 Jan 2024) and reaffirmed their support for the incumbent Commander-in-Chief.

The meeting with Romualdez was facilitated by the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PMAAAI), Association of Generals and Flag Officers (AGFO), Philippine Military Academy Retired Alumni Association (PMARAA), and National ROTC Alumni Association, Inc. (NARAAI).

“We are all here today, united, to air our support to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. his administration, and the leadership of the House of Representatives and the Senate,” said retired Admiral Danilo Abinoja, chairman and CEO of PMAAAI.

He told Romualdez that the PMA is not the only military school in full support of the Marcos Jr. administration; but also all the schools producing servicemen for the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

“We continue to abide by and vow to defend the Constitution and the duly constituted authorities. That is our oath, then and until now,” Abinoja stressed.

For his part, retired Maj. Gen. Marlou Salazar, Vice President of NARRAI, said their group is also against any attempt to destabilize the Marcos administration stressing that stability is the key to peace and progress.

“Ayaw naming magkagulo. A kingdom should not be divided if we want it to succeed,” Salazar emphasized.

Retired Gen. Raul Gonzales, chairman of PMARAAI, said their group is also not in favor of undermining the stability of government.

“We support the sentiments of the PMA alumni here today and we are duty-bound to defend the Constitution even now that we are out of service. Some have different beliefs, but the general membership is united in defending this government,” Gonzales said.

Retired Gen. Gerry Doria, Vice Chairman of AGFO, also reaffirmed their group’s support to the PBBM administration, saying their members are united behind duly constituted authorities all the time.

The Association of Service Academies of the Philippines will also issue a manifesto of support to Marcos and his administration.

Romualdez thanked the retired generals for meeting with him and reaffirming their support for his cousin President Marcos Jr.

“We, in the House of Representatives, are happy to receive you here and listen to you. Words are not enough to express our gratitude to all of you. We are always sensitive, responsive, and reflective of what you have to say even after you leave the service,” Romualdez stressed.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA – Proving his proactive leadership, presidential cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has declared “mission accomplished” as the House of Representatives has passed all but four of 57 priority bills agreed upon by the administration and lawmakers in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

The leader of the 316-member House of Representatives said that when session resumes on Monday (January 22), they would be working on the passage of House Bill No. 9713, or An Act Institutionalizing a Philippine Self-reliant Defense Posture Program, and promoting the development of a national defense industry pursuant thereto.

“We have accomplished our mission as lawmakers by acting promptly on the legislative agenda of President Marcos, which is focused on sustaining economic growth, helping the poor and vulnerable sectors, creating jobs and income opportunities, and in general, making life better for every Filipino,” Romualdez stressed.

The Leyte representative also said that the country should have a credible defense program and industry so it would not be dependent on foreign allies and suppliers for its defense requirements.

Romualdez noted the three other LEDAC measures awaiting final approval are amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, which is under technical working group finalization; the Budget Modernization Bill; and the National Defense Act.

He added that 11 other bills, also among the House priorities, are in various stages of plenary and committee deliberations.

Maharlika NuMedia learned the 11 LEDAC bills signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. are the SIM Registration Act, postponement of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, strengthening professionalism in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, New Agrarian Reform Emancipation Act, Maharlika Investment Fund Act, regional specialty hospitals, national employment recovery strategy/Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, Local government unit Income Classification Act, Internet Transaction/E-Commerce Law, amendments to the Build-Operate-Transfer/Public-Private Partnership Acts, and Ease of Paying Taxes Act.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA – Cognizant of the technological advancement with the emergence of AI (Artificial Intelligence), presidential cousin Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has envisioned the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Parliament to evolve like the EU (European Union).

With this distinct possibility, Romualdez also proposed to establish an ASEAN legal framework to set the rules governing AI.

“I see an ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Parliament like the EU (European Union), and I aspire for that. That has been an aspiration of the ASEAN ever since its inception,” Romualdez said when asked how he sees the Southeast Asian bloc five or 10 years from now.

The Speaker was one of the featured guests during the “Learning from ASEAN” session in Davos on Wednesday afternoon (Switzerland time).

Joining Romualdez in the live panel discussion were Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, and World Trade Organization (WTO) director-general Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

“We’d like to give as a gift to the ASEAN a legal framework. … Digitization, even in our economic policy is very, very much right up there as a priority,” Romualdez said.

The Philippines is set to assume the chairmanship of the regional bloc in 2026.

Seizing the opportunity, Romualdez also invited the international business community to the forthcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) Roundtable to be hosted in Manila by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in March this year to showcase the country’s distinct advantages as a prime destination for foreign investments.

“And to see the seeds of that we invite you to Manila this March 18 to 19. Manila and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will be hosting the World Economic Forum Roundtable. You will get a glimpse of our aspiration of an ASEAN Parliament,” Romualdez said.

As head of the Philippine delegation to the 2024 WEF Annual Meeting, the Speaker extended the invitation in his closing remarks in Davos.

(el Amigo/MNM)