Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez was re-elected Speaker of the House with the backing of 269 out of 315 lawmakers, while President Marcos’ son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, was unanimously chosen as House Majority Leader.
Romualdez pledged transparency and responsiveness as he enters his final term, but 37 lawmakers abstained from voting, with some—including the Duterte bloc—walking out in protest.
Critics like Rep. Paolo Duterte accused the House leadership of turning governance into a “political circus,” while Rep. Albee Benitez cited a need for a more unifying Speaker.
Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan retained his post with support from 29 lawmakers, including progressive and opposition party-list representatives.
The chamber’s leadership lineup also includes Quezon Rep. David Suarez as Senior Deputy Speaker, alongside nine deputy speakers from various political regions.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 29, 2025
