MANILA, Philippines — After the House of Representatives approved all priority bills of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration ahead of time, the leadership promised to address other issues like the economy and national security concerns.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez believes the House did not renege on its commitment, having discussed several bills and conducted investigations.
In his speech on the last day of the 19th Congress’ second regular session, Romualdez said he is proud of what the House has achieved, not only because the priority bills of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) were approved, but also because the chamber remained faithful to its duty.
“Our work in this session has been driven by a clear and compelling mission. Our focus: national security and economic transformation, which are key to improving the living condition for Filipinos. This holistic approach underscores our commitment to safeguarding our nation while fostering economic growth and ensuring that every Filipino experiences a tangible improvement in their quality of life,” Romualdez said.
“I am pleased to say that, as always, we were faithful in fulfilling our solemn obligation,” he added.
READ: House to focus on economy, nat’l security in remaining session days
Since the session resumed last April 29, the House has held several discussions, including the proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law, which was approved on third reading last Tuesday.
House Bill (HB) No. 10381 seeks to give back some of the National Food Authority (NFA) functions like having the power to monitor and regulate rice prices, especially during a food security emergency.
READ: House amendments to rice tariff law approved on 3rd reading
Then, the House committee on national defense and security and the committee on the West Philippines Sea started discussing the alleged gentleman’s agreement between former President Rodrigo Duterte and China to maintain a status quo on the Ayungin Shoal.
During the discussions, it was revealed that the Duterte administration only continued an already existing commitment to the non-construction of BRP Sierra Madre, which was deliberately run aground in Ayungin.
Former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said that he was informed when Duterte was still in office that the commitment was made by former President Benigno Aquino III’s Defense secretary, Voltaire Gazmin.
READ: Medialdea: Ayungin status quo deal started in 2013 under Gazmin
Meanwhile, the House committee on dangerous drugs continued its probe of the government’s drug bust in Pampanga last September 2023, after it was revealed that certain Chinese nationals were part of the company that owns the warehouse used to store the shabu.
READ: Owner of warehouse storing drugs used fake identity, says Barbers
Speaker Romualdez thanked the House members for helping fulfill the House’s promise.
“As we conclude the Second Regular Session of the Nineteenth Congress, I must congratulate all of you for the achievements that I am sure will contribute to charting a prosperous path for our beloved nation. We have steadfastly focused on our legislative works and ensured that our efforts align with the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people,” he said.
“Let us carry with us the understanding that our work is not just a responsibility but a noble privilege – a chance to uplift our fellow Filipinos, leave a lasting imprint on our society, and pave the way for a more prosperous tomorrow,” he added.