Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Alfredo Garbin has stepped down as a member of the House contingent to the powerful Commission on Appointments (CA).
His resignation was announced during Wednesday’s plenary session, followed by the election of Abono Partylist Representative Robert Raymund Estrella as his replacement.
Uswag Ilonggo Partylist Representative James Ang likewise resigned as assistant majority leader and was succeeded by Bukidnon 2nd District Representative Jonathan Keith Flores, chair of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs.
Ang and former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co have been linked to the anomalous flood control projects. Cagayan de Oro 1st District Representative Lordan Suan was also elected as House Assistant Majority Leader.
In a statement, Garbin said his decision came after “thoughtful reflection,” adding that he intended to “assume a more independent position in Congress.”
“This decision comes from a place of personal conviction and continued commitment to public service — not from any form of disagreement, resentment, or political rift,” he said.
He emphasized that he had done nothing improper.
“Let me be clear: I have committed no wrongdoing, and I remain fully guided by the trust reposed in me by the people I serve,” Garbin said.
He added that he would continue supporting House leadership measures “genuinely beneficial to the Filipino people,” stressing that “good governance transcends political alignment.”
“I am not stepping away from my mandate,” he said. “On the contrary, I reaffirm my full commitment to my duties as a legislator — guided by fairness, due process, and constructive participation in lawmaking.”