Deputy Speaker Explains Signature Authority
COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro Parliament Deputy Speaker Nabil Tan clarified that his signing of an official document, on behalf of Speaker Pangalian Balindong, is not an anomaly but a legitimate parliamentary action. Tan emphasized that the Bangsamoro Parliament Deputy Speaker is empowered by the parliament’s rules to sign in the Speaker’s absence.
“While it is true that my signature was affixed without the express and written permission of the Honorable Speaker, I firmly maintain that the act is sanctioned by the Parliamentary Rules and is therefore valid and legally effective,” Tan stated, as shared by local officials.
Rules Empower Deputy Speaker in Speaker’s Absence
According to Tan, the parliamentary rules specify that if the Speaker is absent and no prior designation has been made to act as Speaker, the Deputy Speaker—usually the eldest—steps in. However, this authority is limited strictly to ensuring the parliament’s continuous operation. It does not extend to administrative control over staff or personnel appointments.
“It was with full conviction that affixing my signature fell within the scope of ensuring the continued operations of the Parliament,” Tan remarked, as community representatives noted.
Session Attendance and Document Transmittal
Tan pointed out that during the recent parliamentary session, Speaker Balindong was officially recorded as absent. Consequently, the secretary-general handed over the transmittal of Parliament Bill No. 351—later enacted as Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 77—to him for signing.
This legislation, which reorganizes the 32 parliamentary districts, had been approved on August 19. It was subsequently signed by BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua, who certified it as urgent legislation to align with preparations for the October 13 elections, sources reported.
Signing as a Ministerial Duty, Not Veto Power
Tan clarified that the act of signing documents on behalf of the Speaker is purely ministerial. It serves only as confirmation of the parliament’s approval and cannot be delayed or used as a veto mechanism.
“The ministerial act of signing was not an assertion of personal authority, nor was it intended to diminish the authority of the Speaker. Rather, it was a step to guarantee that the will of the Parliament is properly carried forward,” Tan explained to officials.
His explanation underscores the importance of uninterrupted parliamentary functions, especially during critical legislative periods.
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