Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Wednesday announced his resignation as House Speaker, paving the way for the election of his successor, Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III.
“Today, with a full heart and a clear conscience, I tender my resignation as Speaker of the House of Representatives,” Romualdez said in a speech addressing his colleagues in the lower chamber at the resumption of the regular session.
Dy assumed the speakership after garnering 253 votes, a move that has President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s blessing, according to Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City Rep. Ronaldo Puno.
“If my decision can help restore faith in our institutions, then I offer myself willingly as an example of accountability,” Romualdez said.
He described his resignation as a conscious act to protect public trust and allow the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to proceed with its investigation without influence from top leaders. He also recalled the work done under his watch to help ordinary Filipinos.
“Together with my colleagues, we worked hard to pass reforms that put food on the table, created jobs, expanded education, and strengthened healthcare. These are milestones that will stand beyond my time as Speaker, and I will always be proud of what we have achieved as your people’s House,” he said.
Romualdez then made the announcement that marked a historic shift in the House’s leadership.
“Leadership also demands difficult choices. Today, I have decided to step down as Speaker of the House of Representatives,” he declared.
The outgoing Speaker firmly defended his integrity, stressing that his decision should not be construed as an admission of wrongdoing.
“Let me be clear: I am innocent and I have nothing to hide. My only goal is to serve and improve the lives of every Filipino family. Yet I also know that when questions arise, it is the people’s trust that must always come first,” he said.
Romualdez emphasized that safeguarding the independence of the inquiry outweighed the pull of high office.
“Even if it hurts, I am stepping aside so that the independent investigation may proceed freely—without pressure, without influence, and without fear. This is not surrender, but conscience. I did this because I believe that true service is valuing the trust of the people more than any other position.”
Romualdez added that he hopes his action will help strengthen faith in democratic institutions.
“If my decision can help restore faith in our institutions, then I offer myself willingly as an example of accountability,” he said.
The Leyte lawmaker underscored that stepping down as Speaker does not mean leaving public service.
“This is not farewell, but a reaffirmation of service. I will continue to serve as Representative of Leyte, and as a servant of the Filipino people,” he stated.
He also reaffirmed his trust in due process and the country’s democratic system.
“My faith in due process, in our democracy, and in you—our people—remains unshaken,” he said.
The decision came as scrutiny over certain government projects intensified in recent weeks, with growing calls for full transparency. By stepping down, Romualdez signaled his intent to ensure that any inquiry can move forward without any hint of political interference.
House members across party lines were quick to acknowledge both his legislative record and the significance of his decision, noting that it underscored the principle that public trust must always come first.
Romualdez himself framed the move as an act of service rather than retreat. “In the end, the trust of the people is more important than any power. This is my stance as your public servant,” he said.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated. Originally posted with the headline “Romualdez giving up Speakership – Puno.”
