Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri (left) talks with Senator Ronald dela Rosa during the 31st Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) at PICC in Pasay city on Thursday, November 23, 2023. House Speaker Martin Romualdez sits on the right side. (Photo from SENATE PRIB)
MANILA, Philippines – House Speaker Martin Romualdez downplayed allegations he was behind some “anti-Duterte” resolutions in House of Representatives.
He made this move at a press conference during the 31st Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) at Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay city.
Romualdez was asked to comment on former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s statement that the Speaker backed “anti-Duterte” resolutions.
This support was reportedly meant to “ease out” Vice President Sara Duterte from an eventual presidential race.
“Our good friend former Secretary Roque must have [had] thoughts and he got these ideas. We respect his thoughts and opinions, but they are not accurate,” said Romualdez.
“I’ll just put it at that. None of that is true,” he repeated.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, who was also present during the press conference, likewise defended his counterpart in House of Representatives.
“Let me speak for the Speaker — he’s a very nice guy. The Speaker is focused on his work,” Zubiri intervened.
“He told me earlier: ‘Let’s not talk about politics, Migz. Don’t worry about that. I don’t let it bother me. I just focus on my work,’” the Senate leader quoted the Speaker.
Romualdez earlier refuted speculations that there are moves to impeach Duterte, following the controversy on the proposed confidential and intelligence funds for her offices.