Malacañang on Wednesday expressed openness to the possible leadership transition in the House of Representatives amid reports that Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez will step down from his role as Speaker.
In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said they are also closely monitoring the situation at the lower chamber. “Speaker Romualdez has not yet resigned. Let’s wait for the developments,” she told reporters.
“If ever Speaker Romualdez resigns, it will be acceptable if his reason is to save the integrity of the institution and make way for an open investigation,” Castro said. “Whether he resigns or not, he may still be subjected to an investigation.”
House Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City 1st District Rep. Ronaldo Puno earlier confirmed reports that Romualdez agreed to step down and turn over the leadership to Deputy Speaker and Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III.
Romualdez is expected to make this announcement at a plenary session scheduled at 3:00 p.m. in the House of Representatives.
House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima said she respects this decision.
“Without casting any doubt on the reputation, integrity of the Speaker, this is a good move to remove suspicions in the minds of the public who are cynical about the investigations,” De Lima said.
