In this file photo taken on July 23, 2019, Representatives Alan Peter Cayetano (left) and Lord Allan Velasco seal the term-sharing arrangement suggested by President Rodrigo Duterte for the speakership. However, Cayetano on Monday, October 28, 2019, says he is open to being Speaker for a full term if Velasco gives way. (INQUIRER/JOAN BONDOC)
MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Alan Cayetano is open to the possibility of becoming the House’s leader for three years if Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco gives way to him.
Cayetano’s remark came after some House members aired their support for his leadership, which may foil his “15-21” term-sharing deal with Velasco.
“Well, you know, open to the possibility? Eh kung si congressman Velasco mismo ang magsabi sa akin ikaw na lang, alangan namang pilitin ko pa sya di ba? (If congressman Velasco decides to give way, why should I force him?),” the Taguig-Pateros representative said in an interview on Monday.
“So I mean, tao din tayo (I’m just human), we’re also public servants and we also believe in our own leadership. How can other people believe in my leadership if I don’t believe in my leadership?” he continued.
Despite this, Cayetano said he still respects his agreement with Velasco. Under the speakership term-sharing deal backed by President Rodrigo Duterte, Cayetano would serve for the first 15 months from July 2019 to October 2020 while Velasco would take-over the remaining 21 months of the three-year term.
“Having said that, may leadership din ‘yung tao, may following din ‘yung tao, head din sya ng partido ng ating Pangulo, (Velasco has the leadership too, he also has the following, he’s likewise the head of the President’s political party here in the House), so I have also to respect him,” Cayetano said.
If the agreement ensues, the lawmaker said he would use this as an opportunity to focus on his family, wishing for twins with his wife, Taguig-Pateros 2nd District Rep. Lani Cayetano.
“Yes, praying for twins, soon. Lahat naman siguro ng mag-asawa ‘yun talaga ang hope, magka-pamilya at maalagaan ang pamilya (I think all couples hope to have children and take care of the family),” said Cayetano who is celebrating his 49th birthday Monday, October 28.
“That’s why kung will ni Lord ‘yung 15 months eh baka nga ‘yun ‘yung opportunity na masolo ko siya at masolo niya ako (If it’s the Lord’s will that I serve for 15 months, I’d use my time to focus on my wife),” he added.
READ: Cayetano: Speakership term-sharing deal stays but I’ll wait Duterte’s instruction
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