Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a powerful statement on January 13, 2025, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez reaffirmed his commitment to the continued investigations of essential issues affecting the Filipino people, particularly rising rice and electricity prices. Addressing the resumption of the 19th Congress session, Romualdez emphasized the House of Representatives’ role as a vanguard of good governance, committed to transparency and accountability in the government.
“Our fight for the people’s welfare continues,” Speaker Romualdez declared, noting that the ongoing inquiries would tackle the underlying causes of soaring rice and agricultural product prices, as well as electricity rates. The House’s investigations are set to delve into widespread concerns over smuggling and hoarding practices that undermine local farmers, contribute to inflation, and hinder food security.
The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), a key player in the country’s energy sector, is also under scrutiny for alleged violations of its legislative franchise. NGCP, which has attracted attention due to its 40% ownership by Chinese interests, has been accused of disallowed expenditures amounting to ₱206 billion. These funds, Speaker Romualdez stressed, should have been used to benefit Filipino consumers.
In addition to these inquiries, Romualdez outlined other pressing issues that the House intends to address, including the mismanagement of ₱11.18 billion worth of expired medicines and the underutilization of funds allocated for PhilHealth services, which directly affect the health and well-being of Filipinos. He also underscored the House’s commitment to investigating the potential misuse of confidential funds, ensuring that no public money goes unaccounted for.
Standing Firm for the Filipino People
Despite mounting pressure from various quarters to halt these investigations, Speaker Romualdez declared, “We will not back down. We will continue the work entrusted to us by the Filipino people. We stand firm in our mission to address the needs of our nation, and we will never betray the public trust.”
The Speaker’s firm stance reflects his broader vision for a more transparent and accountable government. Under his leadership, the House has made strides in uncovering inefficiencies and pushing for reforms that will directly benefit Filipino citizens. “Public trust is sacred,” Romualdez emphasized, asserting that the legislative body is committed to upholding the integrity of public office.
Economic Growth Amid Challenges
While advocating for crucial reforms, Romualdez also highlighted the Philippines’ impressive economic resilience in 2024. Despite the challenges posed by typhoons and global economic uncertainties, early projections show a solid growth rate of 5.9% to 6.5%. “This performance is a testament to the hardworking Filipino farmer, worker, and entrepreneur who continue to drive our economy forward,” Romualdez remarked.
However, the Speaker reminded his colleagues that economic growth must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Filipinos. While inflation has eased to 4.9%, many families still face financial strain. Romualdez pointed to government programs like the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) and Kadiwa ng Pangulo, which offer direct economic assistance to vulnerable sectors of society.
“Economic progress should not just be about numbers; it must uplift the lives of our people,” he asserted. Romualdez’s leadership has focused on blending strategic governance with compassion, ensuring that policies are designed not just to spur growth but to address the immediate needs of the Filipino people.
Legislative Achievements and Future Goals
In 2024, the House of Representatives achieved a significant milestone, passing 183 measures that became law. However, Romualdez emphasized that success is not measured by quantity alone, but by the quality of laws and their capacity to change lives. Among the most notable pieces of legislation passed in 2024 were:
CREATE MORE Act: This law aims to stimulate economic recovery by fostering investments and job creation.
Self-Reliant Defense Posture Act: Strengthening national security while creating skilled jobs.
Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act: Targeting smuggling and profiteering in the agriculture sector.
Philippine Maritime Zones Act & Archipelagic Sealanes Act: Enhancing maritime sovereignty and promoting the maritime economy.
Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Act: Bridging educational gaps for Filipino youth.
These laws, according to Romualdez, represent not only policy changes but commitments to a better, fairer, and stronger nation. He highlighted that the House, which he proudly calls the “People’s Chamber,” stands as a symbol of democracy’s enduring strength. “Within these walls, we do not simply draft laws; we give life to the aspirations of our nation,” he said.
Global Leadership and the Future of the Philippines
As Speaker Romualdez concluded his remarks, he turned his focus to the Philippines’ emerging role on the global stage. “Our nation is no longer a quiet observer in the global arena. It is a leader,” he asserted. The Philippines, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is increasingly seen as a beacon of growth and stability, exemplified by the transformative “Build, Better, More” infrastructure program.
This international shift in perception is critical for the Philippines, as it seeks to assert its sovereignty while fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and global partnerships. Romualdez’s call to action remains clear: “Leadership is not defined by the power we wield but by the lives we change.”
In the weeks ahead, the Speaker’s commitment to rigorous investigations, transparent governance, and strategic reforms promises to continue shaping the country’s future, ensuring that progress reaches every Filipino.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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