House Defends Speaker Romualdez Against Tambaloslos Tag
The House of Representatives, through spokesperson lawyer Princess Abante, has firmly addressed the “tambaloslos” label critics have pinned on Speaker Martin Romualdez. This four-word keyphrase has sparked debate after Senator Imee Marcos used it during a gathering in Malaysia, where other officials like Vice President Sara Duterte were also present.
Abante clarified that Speaker Romualdez earned the “tambaloslos” tag due to his genuine efforts to aid the hungry, the sick, and those who lost their jobs. “Tinawag si Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez na ‘tambaloslos’ dahil sa kanyang pagtulong — sa mga nagugutom, maysakit, at nawalan ng hanapbuhay,” she explained.
She added, “Kung ang pagtulong sa kapwa ang itinuturing ng iba na kalokohan, mas gugustuhin po naming matawag na ‘tambaloslos’ — kaysa matawag na ‘kawatan’ dahil sa pagnanakaw sa kaban ng bayan.” The word “kawatan” means “thief” in Filipino.
Origins of the Tambaloslos Label
The derogatory term “tambaloslos” was first used publicly by Vice President Sara Duterte in 2023 during her time as Department of Education secretary. She made the remark in an Instagram post, which many interpreted as a jab at Speaker Romualdez. Later, Senator Marcos echoed the sentiment in Malaysia, accusing the current administration of misusing billions of pesos under the guise of government aid or “ayuda” to influence votes.
House of Representatives Stands Firm on Aid Programs
In response, Abante voiced the House’s unwavering support for President Marcos’ ayuda initiatives. Despite ongoing accusations and political intrigues, she emphasized, “Sa gitna ng paninira at intriga, kami po sa House of Representatives ay naninindigan: Ang pagtulong sa mahihirap ay hindi kailanman dapat ikahiya.”
She assured that the aid provided to impoverished Filipinos follows strict procedures, is properly documented, and reaches its intended recipients. “Ang ayudang ipinagkakaloob sa mahihirap na Pilipino ay may malinaw na proseso, may resibo, at may diretsong patutunguhan. Hindi ito itinatago, hindi nililihim, at lalong hindi inililipat sa personal na bank account,” Abante stated.
She contrasted this with confidential and intelligence funds, which she noted were often spent quickly without clear explanations or itemized reports, highlighting the difference in transparency.
Political Climate and Continuing Work
Abante also took a subtle swipe at critics, noting how some officials focus on international trips, media appearances, and early campaigning. Meanwhile, Speaker Romualdez and the House remain dedicated to their duties by filing bills, monitoring government funds, and delivering essential services to vulnerable communities.
“Habang ang iba ay abala sa pag-iikot sa abroad, sa media appearances, at tila maagang kampanya — si Speaker Romualdez at ang Kamara ay patuloy na nagtatrabaho: naghahain ng panukalang batas, nagbabantay ng pondo, at nagdadala ng serbisyo sa mga nangangailangan,” she said.
The House also recalls that Vice President Duterte faced impeachment earlier this year over alleged misuse of confidential funds, underscoring the ongoing political tensions.
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