Belmonte: ‘We have an opposition to watch out for’

MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said that they have a minority bloc “to watch out for” with the Makabayan group bolting the majority to join the opposition.

After meeting during the weekend, the Makabayan bloc, composed of seven militant lawmakers in the House, announced that they were joining the minority bloc and pledged support for San Juan Representative Ronaldo Zamora.

Zamora eventually won the race for the post of minority leader.

“They think that is their role now and I respect them for that,” said Belmonte.

“We do have an opposition that we have to watch out for, that will keep us on our toes,” he added.