House to tackle economic dev’t, nat’l security on remaining session days

House Speaker Martin Romualdez | PHOTO: Official facebook page of the House of Representatives of the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The remaining session days of the 19th Congress’ second regular session will be used by the House of Representatives to deliberate how economic development and stronger national security will be attained, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said on Tuesday.

Romualdez made the pronouncement during a forum hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, informing diplomats and government officials present that the House seeks to strengthen the country’s national defense by crafting laws that promote the Philippines’ security posture.

“As we embark on another session this April 29th, our legislative focus sharpens on the dual imperatives of national security and robust development. Recognizing that peace is the cornerstone of prosperity, we aim to enact laws that fortify our national defense and enhance our international security posture,” Romualdez said in his speech as the event’s keynote speaker.

“These initiatives are critical in maintaining sovereignty and stability, enabling our nation to pursue development goals without the shadow of external threats,” he added.

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Romualdez said maintaining the country’s peace and order would bode well for its bid to become an investment hub, which would then usher in economic development.

“These, in turn, contribute to further stabilizing our nation by reducing poverty, creating jobs, and improving living standards, which diminishes the likelihood of social unrest. This virtuous cycle is fundamental to sustainable development and is a cornerstone of our legislative agenda,” he noted.

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The House and the Senate will resume session by April 29 and adjourn by May 24 — which means that excluding weekends and Thursdays and Fridays, Congress has 12 session days before going on a sine die adjournment.

Both houses would convene by July 21 to open the third regular session of the 19th Congress, which will coincide with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address.

According to the Speaker, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure are among the other things that the House would try to discuss as part of its “ambitious” goals.

“In healthcare, we are committed to expanding access and improving the quality of services, making healthcare affordable and accessible to every Filipino. Our initiatives in education aim to create a more liberalized system that not only meets global standards but also equips our youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a globalized economy,” Romualdez said.

“Additionally, by enhancing our digital infrastructure, we aim to ensure that every Filipino can benefit from the digital revolution, bridging digital divides and fostering economic inclusivity,” he added.

Romualdez urged the diplomats and the government officials to engage with the House in exploring ways to attain all of the current administration’s aspirations.

“We aim not only to continue our current path but to accelerate our efforts. We are exploring innovative legislative measures that promote technological advancement and environmental sustainability. These initiatives are designed to ensure that the Philippines not only keeps pace with global trends but also sets a benchmark for innovation and responsible governance,” he said.

“Your insights, expertise, and participation are invaluable as we forge a path forward. Through collaborative efforts, we can build a future that reflects our highest aspirations and fulfills the promise of prosperity and peace for all Filipinos,” he added.

The DFA hosted the Second Foreign Policy Address, which carried the theme “New Initiatives to Grow Business in the Philippines.  Among the DFA officials present were Secretary Enrique Manalo, Assistant Secretary Celia Anna Feria who was also the forum moderator, Undersecretary Antonio Morales, and other key officials of the department.