Romualdez Gains Strong Backing for Speakership
A prominent lawmaker has confirmed that Leyte’s 1st district Representative Martin Romualdez already enjoys the support of most incoming members of the House of Representatives for the 20th Congress. This overwhelming backing effectively guarantees Romualdez’s victory in the Speakership race before it even begins.
“Tapos na (It’s finished). The Speaker has the numbers,” said a leading Quezon district representative, referring to Romualdez, who currently serves as Speaker of the 19th Congress. Romualdez, who leads the influential Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), will step down as Speaker when Congress adjourns on June 13. Yet, sources say his return as Speaker for the next term is already assured.
Majority Support Reflects Confidence in Leadership
Reports indicate that over 240 of the 315 newly elected House members from the May 12 midterm elections have pledged their support to Romualdez, representing a supermajority. This strong consensus is seen as a clear vote of confidence in his leadership and legislative accomplishments.
One senior party official noted, “This is already a supermajority. This support transcends party lines and represents unity, productivity, and trust in the Speaker’s steady and principled leadership.” As of the weekend, the number of signatories on the manifesto of support continues to grow, with backing from major political groups across the chamber.
Unity Across Diverse Political Blocs
Lawmakers from various major parties, including Lakas-CMD, National Unity Party (NUP), Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), Nacionalista Party (NP), Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), and the Party-list Coalition Foundation Inc. (PCFI), have all expressed support. This broad coalition signals Romualdez’s ability to unify a diverse and often fragmented House.
A deputy speaker highlighted, “Speaker Romualdez has demonstrated calm yet decisive leadership. He remains open to all, while providing clear direction. Under his guidance, the House stays focused on results rather than partisan politics.”
Continuity in Legislative Achievements
The strong show of support also reflects lawmakers’ desire to maintain the progress made during the 19th Congress. Under Romualdez’s leadership, the House passed two national budgets on time, enacted responsive laws during national emergencies, and implemented economic measures aimed at sustained growth.
One official commented, “His record speaks for itself: timely budgets, effective crisis response, and policies that promote economic stability. Continuity matters for our country’s future.”
While no formal public announcement has been scheduled, a full declaration of support is expected before the 20th Congress convenes in July.
For more news and updates on House Speakership, visit Filipinokami.com.