293 expected to vote for Romualdez as speaker

The overwhelming majority in the House of Representatives grew stronger, from 287 to 293 lawmakers who are expected to vote for reelected Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez as speaker when the 20th Congress convenes today.

- By DELON PORCALLA

"Backed by 293 of his peers, Rep. Romualdez has shown that he is not only capable of uniting coalitions, but also of steering the chamber toward productivity and lasting impact," Parañaque Rep. Brian Yamsuan of the National Unity Party said.

Other senior administration stalwarts also predicted a second term for Romualdez as Speaker.

"Under his speakership, the House passed landmark legislations and maintained a very productive working relationship with the executive branch, all while staying true to our constitutional mandate. That kind of leadership is both rare and essential," Rep. Jesus Eleandro Madrona said.

"His guiding principle has always been clear: support what is good for the country, protect the institution, and always prioritize the people's welfare," Madrona added.

"Rep. Romualdez's track record speaks for itself. He has led the House in passing laws that truly matter to the Filipino people, and he has done so by building consensus and keeping the institution stable," Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga, of the Nationalist People's Coalition, said.

Former deputy speaker David Suarez and Rep. Janette Garin of Lakas-CMD agreed.