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)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos disclosed that House Speaker Martin Romualdez harbored resentment towards her for supporting the Duterte camp.
“Si Speaker, alam ko may tampo sa akin mula pa noong 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?” Marcos stated.
“Nasa kasagsagan noong October nung confidential ek-ek, tsaka ICC—lahat ng issues sa mag-amang Duterte. Sabi ko nga, bakit natin inaaway? Di ko ma-gets,” the senator added.
Marcos, however, clarified that she has not harbored ill feelings towards Romualdez, emphasizing that they are merely performing their duties.
“Trabaho lang ito, hindi naman ako galit sa kanya. Ang problema talaga, hindi kami magkasundo sa pananaw, at hindi ako naniniwala na ang pinakaimportanteng bagay sa buhay ng Pilipino ngayon ay ang pagbabago ng Konstitusyon. Hindi ‘yun ang pinagaabalahan ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino,” she remarked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez has voiced his “unwavering support” for the Senate’s initiative to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
“As the Speaker of the House of Representatives, I would like to express my unwavering support for the Senate’s initiative to file a Resolution of Both Houses of Congress,” Romualdez said.
“This resolution, utilizing the mode of Constituent Assembly, is a decisive step toward amending the 1987 Constitution, particularly in terms of relaxing the economic provisions that currently restrict the entry of foreign direct investments into the Philippines.”
He added that the proposed amendments are “not just timely but necessary” to unlock the full potential of the economy, fostering a more competitive, inclusive, and robust economic environment.
On Monday (15 January 2024), Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri stated that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had instructed the Senate to lead the review of the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Following the proposal of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez that the Maharlika Investment Corporation should consider investing in the country’s main grid operator, MIC president and CEO (Chief Executive Officer) Rafael Consing Jr. has disclosed that the management of the country’s first sovereign wealth fund is willing to invest into the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to upgrade its systems.
Romualdez floated the idea after Panay Island was hit by a massive power outage earlier this week due to multiple power “trippings” in the area.
“Kung titingnan po natin yung transmission ng grid, when you got a significant amount of renewable power going into the grid that creates volatility in NGCP. There’s a need to ensure that significant amount of auxiliary services to back up the grid and that requires a significant amount of capital, and that’s where MIC can help,” Consing revealed in an interview with CNN Philippines.
He added that the NGCP has funds for upgrades but may not be enough due to the rapid increase in the generation of renewable power that’s coming in, which in turn causes volatility in the grid.
“I think there is capital out there for them to be able to deploy but I don’t think it’s enough and that’s basically where we can come in and provide support,” Consing quipped.
He explained that the NGCP needs a “substantial amount of capital” to upgrade.
“NGCP is a very profitable organization, the backbone of our electricity ecosystem. It generates a significant amount of cash flow,” Consing assured.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Concerned about the plight of thousands of jeepney drivers and their families, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Friday called for a motu proprio congressional investigation into the corruption issues that reportedly hound the jeepney modernization program.
The Speaker from Leyte said he will call on the House Committee on Transportation chaired by Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop to investigate the reports received by his office indicating that corrupt practices may have influenced the conceptualization and planned implementation of the jeepney modernization program.
“The reports alleged that existing transport officials are in cahoots with previous officials in negotiating for the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the old units,” Romualdez noted.
The ruling Lakas-CMD president also appealed to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to conduct a complete review of the modernization program and extend the period of its implementation until measures aimed at protecting the jeepney drivers are set in place.
“As we embrace progress and innovation, it is imperative that we address the need for modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport systems. The jeepney modernization program is not just about upgrading vehicles; it’s a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate our urban transportation landscape, making it safer, more reliable, and in tune with sustainable practices,” Romualdez stressed.
He further observed that the iconic jeepneys have long been “a symbol of our nation’s vibrant culture and enduring spirit.”
“However, it is crucial to acknowledge that at the heart of this modernization are the jeepney drivers – the hardworking individuals who have been the backbone of our local transport industry for decades. Their welfare is our primordial concern. As we transition to modernized jeepneys, we recognize the challenges faced by drivers and operators,” Romualdez quipped.
However, Romualdez said affected drivers should be offered training programs to help them adapt to new technologies.
The House leader said providing fixed-income opportunities to drivers will also be explored to stabilize their income and help them plan and secure their financial futures more effectively.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — As the new year 2024 ushered in, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday called for the further strengthening of unity of the Filipino people, saying there are no challenges that cannot be hurdled by a united citizenry.
The president of the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) noted that in 2023, the unity and determination of Filipinos were strengthened to promote peace and prosperity.
“Sa pagkakaisa, walang imposible. Manalig tayo sa ating kakayahan bilang isang bansa na harapin ang anumang hamon at lumago nang magkasama. Kasama ang buong pamahalaan, nakatutok tayo sa paggawa ng mga hakbang na magdadala ng mas magandang bukas para sa ating lahat,” Romualdez said.
The House Speaker from Leyte also encouraged everyone to be instruments of change and a source of hope for others in 2024.
“Sa pagpasok ng bagong taon, hatid ko at dasal ang mensahe ng pag-asa at pangako para sa ating bayan,” Romualdez quipped in a Facebook post.
He also urged every Filipino to have faith in the nation’s capabilities to face the challenges and grow together.
“Nakatutok tayo sa pagpapalakas ng ating ekonomiya, pagbibigay ng trabaho sa ating mga kababayan, pagpapaigting ng serbisyong panlipunan, at higit sa lahat, ang pagtataguyod ng kapayapaan at kaayusan sa ating bansa,” the Leyte representative said.
“Naniniwala ako na sa pamamagitan ng ating sama-samang pagsisikap, mas marami pa tayong magagawa para sa kinabukasan ng bawat Pilipino,” Romualdez concluded.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Sunday (24 Dec 2023) urged Filipinos to embrace the spirit of kindness, particularly during this Christmas season.
Romualdez emphasized that Christmas transcends mere material gifts; it is a time for the exchange of kindness and compassion. He stated, “Christmas is also a time of giving, not just of material gifts, but of kindness and compassion. In every gift shared, a thread of hope is woven into the fabric of our community.”
Encouraging the spirit of Bayanihan, Romualdez urged individuals to reach out to their neighbors, spreading joy to those in need. He poetically expressed, “In doing so, we light up the lives of others, just as the parols light up our skies.”
Highlighting the significance of shared moments, Romualdez underscored, “The greatest gifts are the moments we share and the memories we create together.”
He continued by encouraging people to cherish the gift of family during the festive season. “In every shared laugh, every shared meal, we weave stronger bonds that hold our families together. Let these moments remind us of the love and warmth that family brings into our lives, a love that is our truest treasure.”
(IAMIGO/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Reaffirming the commitment of the House of Representatives to pass measures needed for the realization of the investment pledges, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday (23 Dec 2023) noted that the strategic international engagement of his cousin President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is now yielding positive results that will benefit thousands of Filipino workers.
The head of the super majority administration allies made the statement after the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported that P170 billion in actual investments had been generated from 34 letters of intent and agreements signed with various Japanese companies during Marcos Jr.’s visit to Japan in February this year.
“We are witnessing the fruits of President Marcos Jr.’s strategic international engagements. These investments are not just numbers; they represent hope, opportunities, and a brighter future for thousands of Filipinos,” Romualdez declared.
According to DTI, the actual investment generated 9,700 jobs, according to DTI.
These include the P4.4 billion investment from electronic parts maker Murata Manufacturing for the construction of a new production building in Tanauan City, Batangas.
DTI added that during Marcos Jr.’s February trip to Japan, a total of P771.6 billion investment pledges were made.
These pledges are expected to create 40,200 jobs, it pointed out.
“These varied investments reflect our nation’s growing attractiveness as a global investment destination, capable of meeting the needs of diverse industries,” Romualdez noted.
He added: “They also align with our commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez announced Monday (18 Dec 2023) that President Ferdinand Marcos “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is slated to sign the P5.76-trillion national budget on Wednesday.
Romualdez mentioned that it should have been signed before the President’s trip to Japan; however, the printing of the bill was still in progress.
“The signing is scheduled for Wednesday. He would have signed it before he left if the printing had been completed. But I think they are still in the process of printing. There are printing requirements, right? Many copies are needed. But other than that, it’s ready. It’s ready to go,” the House Speaker stated.
He assured that they do not anticipate any changes in the bill. “We are following the parameters. We’ll be working closely with the Office of the President and all the departments,” Romualdez added.
After participating in the 50th anniversary of the ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation Summit, Marcos is expected to return to Manila on Monday.
The 2024 budget proposal was ratified last week by the Senate and the House of Representatives.
(ai/mnm)
MANILA — House Speaker Martin Romualdez announced that local government units will benefit from a larger allocation in the P5.768 trillion 2024 national budget.
“The budget includes provisions for the effective implementation of the Mandanas ruling, ensuring that local governments have the necessary resources for implementing reforms at the grassroots level,” stated Romualdez during the awarding of the Seal of Good Local Governance to outstanding LGUs.
Romualdez expressed optimism that these provisions will motivate more local governments to strive for the Seal of Good Local Governance.
The House Speaker clarified that the budget measure delineates funds for economic development, assistance in agriculture, healthcare advancements, educational changes, and infrastructure upgrades.
“The House of Representatives is committed to supporting all sectors, including local government officials, who aspire to empower our fellow Filipinos in pursuing their ambitions. My office is open to establishing an institutional mechanism that fosters better coordination between the House of Representatives and local government units,” added Romualdez.
(ai/mnm)