Isabela: Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III was formally elected on Wednesday as the new Speaker of the House of Representatives, garnering 253 votes, 28 abstentions, and zero negative votes. He replaced Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who stepped down to protect public trust and allow the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to proceed with its investigation without influence from top leaders.
According to Philippines News Agency, in his inaugural address, Dy assured the public that the House of Representatives would work to earn back the trust of the people by pursuing budget reforms, ensuring transparency, and helping address corruption in questionable flood control projects. He emphasized that under his leadership, the House would not tolerate corruption or impunity, would cooperate fully with the ICI, and would ensure that all inquiries into corruption are conducted openly and fairly.
Dy stated, "Under my leadership, this House will change. I will not defend the guilty. I will not shield the corrupt. Gaya ng paninindigan ng ating Pangulo (Like the commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.) -- no rank, no ally, no office will be spared from accountability." He also called on his colleagues to unite behind a common mission, stressing that he would need their support to deliver meaningful reforms and restore the credibility of the House.
The new Speaker also highlighted that budget reforms would be pursued under his leadership with the help of the members of Congress, emphasizing that the national budget must be aligned with the needs of the people. "Sa tulong ninyo, sisiguraduhin din natin na ang bawat sentimo na paglalaanan ng badyet sa bawat departamento ay tutugma sa pangangailangan ng mamamayang Pilipino (With your help, we will ensure that each centavo allotted to each department will align with the needs of the people)," he said.
Dy also commended Romualdez, noting his role in ensuring continuity and cooperation. The Isabela lawmaker brings to the Speakership more than four decades in public service, with his career beginning at the barangay level before holding various positions, including Vice Mayor, Mayor, and Governor of Isabela.
Senator Francis Escudero welcomed Dy's election as the new leader of the lower chamber, citing his long experience and steady leadership. "I have personally known Bojie for a long time and I am confident that his experience and steady leadership will serve the House well during this critical period," Escudero said in a statement. However, he cautioned that the leadership shift should not erase past issues, emphasizing the need for institutional reform.
Escudero expressed confidence that Speaker Dy would steer the House toward accountability and transparency. "I wish Speaker Dy the very best. I trust that he will rise to the challenge and steer the House toward greater integrity and responsiveness to the people's concerns," he said.
