Resolution to defend House, support Romualdez OK’D

The House of Representatives has adopted a resolution “upholding the integrity and honor of the institution and expressing appreciation and solidarity to the leadership” of Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Adopted on Monday afternoon, Nov. 6, via simple voice vote was House Resolution (HR) No.1414.

Before this, the House members convened as a Committee of the Whole to discuss the measure in plenary. It was during this meeting that nearly all high-ranking congressmen and representatives of the major political parties made manifestations on their continued backing of Romualdez and their desire to defend the House.

“The House has always taken criticisms as part and parcel of a healthy, vibrant, and working democracy, but it takes exception to statements made that undermine the independence, integrity, and reputation of the institution, more so when these statements are couched with threats or insinuations of physical harm to a sitting member of Congress,” read HR No.1414. “In the face of adversity, the speaker has remained steadfast in defending the integrity and honor of this revered institution against the machinations and intrigues of those driven by personal ambitions and power,” it read.

It further stated: “Acutely aware of the intense pressures and covert threats some of our colleagues face, our speaker, through unwavering commitment and leadership, has served as a protective barrier, in ensuring that the foundational principles of the

House of the People remain intact.”

Seven deputy speakers, led by Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. (Pampanga) signed HR No.1414. The six others are Deputy Speakers Ralph Recto (Batangas), Camille Villar (Las Piñas City), Vincent Franco Frasco (Cebu), Roberto Puno (Antipolo City), Kristine Singson-meehan (Ilocos Sur), and Raymond Democrito Mendoza (TUCP).

House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe (Zamboanga City), sponsored the measure.

“While we recognize that legitimate criticisms are but part of the organs of democracy, we are unfazed. We continue to improve the delivery of our constitutionally mandated obligation to serve the people through legislation,” Dalipe said.