On the opening of the new session of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, September 17, House Speaker Martin Romualdez — cousin of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. — formally resigned from his post.
In his speech, Romualdez said his decision was aimed at clearing not only his own name but also the House of Representatives from controversies surrounding corruption in government projects.
“Today, with a full heart and a clear conscience, I tender my resignation as Speaker of the House of Representatives. I do this so that the Independent Commission on Infrastructure may pursue its mandate freely and fully — without doubt, without interference, and without undue influence,” Romualdez declared.
He recalled the message he gave when he assumed the speakership in 2022, but stressed that leadership also requires confronting challenges as they arise.
“Yet leadership also demands that we confront the trials of the present,” he said.
Quoting President Marcos’ recent State of the Nation Address, Romualdez added: “In his recent State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reminded us that accountability must prevail and that no one is above scrutiny. I fully and unequivocally embrace that call.”
Romualdez said he is prepared to face the probe of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) into anomalous flood control projects. Former DPWH Bulacan 1st District Assistant Engineer Brice Hernandez earlier implicated both Romualdez and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co in the controversy.
“The longer I stay, the heavier that burden grows — on me, on this House, and on the President I have always sought to support. And so, after deep reflection and prayer, I have made the decision. Let the truth emerge, and let justice be done,” Romualdez said.