The speakership bid of reelected Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has garnered what Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin described as ‘‘overwhelming’’ support, with 291 out of the 314 lawmakers signing a manifesto backing his return as leader of the House of Representatives in the 20th Congress.
‘‘With 291 members of the 20th Congress expressing support for Congressman Martin Romualdez, that’s a significant number considering the total membership is just over 300,’’ Garin said during a media briefing via Zoom on Thursday.
With the House set to open its First Regular Session on Monday, Garin said Romualdez’s election as Speaker appears inevitable.
‘‘Of course, the official election has not taken place yet, but based on how things are progressing and with this being my sixth and final term in Congress it is very clear that Congressman Martin Romualdez will be the next Speaker of the 20th Congress,’’ she said.
Garin noted that support for Romualdez cuts across party lines, regions, and ideological groups, with even former critics now backing his bid.
Among those who signed the manifesto were former President and reelected Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Negros Occidental Rep. Javi Benitez the son of Bacolod City Rep. Albee Benitez and Davao Occidental Rep. Claude Bautista, who previously served as campaign manager of Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2022 elections, alongside Romualdez.
She also confirmed the inclusion of newly elected Malasakit Party-list Rep. Girlie Veloso, aligned with the political network of Senator Bong Go. Veloso is expected to be the 292nd lawmaker to join the growing list of supporters.
According to Garin, the speakership typically hinges on two major factors: the endorsement of the sitting administration and a proven track record in public service and leadership.
‘‘Romualdez has demonstrated both strong support from the administration and an ability to lead and serve effectively,’’ she said.
She emphasized that Romualdez’s wide support reflects his inclusive and consultative leadership style, noting his ability to build consensus, listen to colleagues, and delegate responsibility effectively.
As an example, Garin cited the Speaker’s initiative to empower district-level disaster response efforts by enabling legislators to act quickly during calamities. This leadership style, she said, aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas governance agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., particularly its focus on responsive and inclusive government.
‘‘Just recently, during the typhoon, we saw our district representatives able to respond immediately because they were empowered under Speaker Romualdez’s leadership,’’ she said.
Garin contrasted this approach with the more centralized leadership of previous administrations, saying Romualdez’s model of empowering individual legislators has helped build a more agile and effective legislative branch.
She also praised the Speaker for maintaining institutional professionalism and integrity within the House, saying such traits are rare among leaders.
Citing improvements in research capabilities, legislative output, and responsiveness to public needs under Romualdez’s leadership, Garin said these institutional advancements have inspired many of her colleagues to support his return.
‘‘These are the very reasons so many lawmakers are rallying behind him for continuity in House leadership,’’ she added.
