House replaces leadership posts vacated by Arroyo, Vilma Santos

The House of Representatives on Wednesday elected replacements for former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Batangas City Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto, who were stripped of their leadership posts in March for voting against the death penalty bill.

The deputy speakership vacated by Arroyo was given to Bulacan Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica, who previously chaired the House foreign affairs committee, according to Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas.

Replacing Villarica as chair of the foreign affairs panel was Isabela Rep. Ana Cristina Go.

On the other hand, Santos-Recto’s seat as chair of the committee on civil service and professional regulation by fellow Batangas Rep. Marvey Mariño, Fariñas said.

On March 15, the House leadership meted out reprisals to several lawmakers who had voted “no” to the death penalty bill by declaring their posts vacant. JE