MANILA – The House of Representatives on Monday adopted a resolution expressing “unwavering and unqualified support” for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez amid “serious and dangerous remarks” that threaten democracy, rule of law, and public trust.
In sponsoring House Resolution (HR) No. 2092, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said “recent events” have “brought to light conduct and statements” that not only threaten the dignity of the chamber but also compromise national security and public trust in government.
“These include actions that defy protocols, undermine accountability, and most alarmingly, threats to the very lives of our leaders – His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the First Lady, Mrs. Liza Araneta Marcos, and our beloved Speaker, Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez,” Gonzales said.
Gonzales did not name names, but House leaders condemned Vice President Sara Duterte’s remarks over the weekend that she has contracted an assassin to target President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Romualdez.
He highlighted that President Marcos’ leadership “continues to guide our nation toward progress and stability.”
“His vision for a strong and united Philippines is evident in his administration’s achievements. It is our duty as legislators to rally behind our President in defending the interests of the Filipino people and safeguarding the future of our democratic institutions,” Gonzales said.
As for Romualdez, Gonzales said the House leader “has displayed exemplary leadership and unwavering resolve in defending this institution against those who seek to weaken it.”
“His swift and decisive response to these serious threats is a testament to his commitment to upholding the principles of democratic governance and the rule of law,” he added.
Gonzales further said the House under Romualdez’s leadership “has demonstrated unity, dynamism, and effectiveness in performing its mandate.”
“We have passed crucial legislations that support the priorities of the administration and address the needs of our constituents. These successes show that, with a stalwart like Speaker Romualdez, this institution can withstand any obstacle and remain a pillar of democracy,” he said.
Gonzales said the resolution serves as a reminder of the House members’ responsibility to uphold the dignity, honor, and integrity of the chamber.
“In doing so, we must also express our collective solidarity with our leaders who stand at the forefront of defending our democratic institutions and the rule of law,” he said.
Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, who also sponsored the resolution, said the House, as a “cornerstone” of the nation’s democracy, must uphold transparency, accountability, and respect for institutional protocols.
Dalipe said the country “witnessed the blatant disregard for these rules and protocols by no less than the second highest official of the land.”
“I take this opportunity to reiterate that this august chamber must be accorded the honor and dignity befitting its status as the House of the People. To disrespect this chamber is to disrespect the people that we represent. No public official, regardless of rank or position, should consider itself above and beyond the 100-million strong Filipino people by obstructing the lawful proceedings and orders of the House,” he said.
Dalipe also expressed concerns over what he termed as a “wanton breach of protocol, the use of vindictive language, and the threat of harm aimed at the leaders of this country.”
“I applaud President Marcos and Speaker Romualdez for their patience, restraint, and ability to rise above the fray by focusing on the work that needs to be done,” he added.
The resolution garnered wide support across political parties, including Deputy Speaker David Suarez (Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats), Bataan Rep. Albert Garcia (National Unity Party), Rep. Mark Enverga (Nationalist People’s Coalition), Surigao Del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Nacionalista Party), Nueva Ecija Rep. Rosanna Ria Vergara (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas), ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo (Party-List Coalition Foundation), and Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado (Liberal Party). (PNA)