Manila: A former lawmaker from Mindanao on Friday praised former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez for voluntarily stepping down from his post to protect the integrity and stability of the institution he represents. This decision aims to allow the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) probe body to investigate alleged anomalies in government infrastructure projects without hindrance.
According to Philippines News Agency, former Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Romualdez's chief communications officer, expressed his admiration for Romualdez's decision, stating that it demonstrates he is not clinging to his position. Barbers emphasized that the former Speaker's voluntary resignation highlights his readiness to sacrifice for the sake of maintaining the House of Representatives' integrity and the respect it commands.
Barbers, who previously chaired the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs and led the Quad Committee, revealed that senior leaders from various political parties had urged Romualdez to retain his position despite the pressure from political opponents. These leaders were concerned about finding a suitable replacement who could unify the majority of the chamber's members.
In a speech before the House plenary on Tuesday, Romualdez conveyed his decision to resign with a clear conscience, allowing the Independent Commission on Infrastructure to operate without interference. He aligned himself with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call for accountability and scrutiny, as emphasized in the President's State of the Nation Address last July.
The allegations of irregularities in government infrastructure projects have cast a shadow not only on Romualdez but also on the chamber itself. Romualdez expressed that his continued presence would only exacerbate this burden on himself, the House, and President Marcos, prompting his decision after careful reflection.
Romualdez has been succeeded by Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III, a former House Deputy Speaker and member of President Marcos' Partido Federal ng Pilipinas.
