BACOLOD City – Two names are currently being floated in the House of Representatives for the speakership: outgoing Bacolod City mayor and Congressman-elect Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez and incumbent House Speaker Martin Romualdez of Leyte’s 1st District.
This was confirmed by Abang Lingkod Party-list’s Rep. Stephen Paduano, a known ally of Benitez.
“These two names are now being discussed in Congress,” Paduano said.
However, he clarified that he cannot speak on behalf of Benitez regarding any intention to pursue the speakership: “I cannot confirm if Mayor Albee will seek the speakership.”
As for Romualdez, Paduano confirmed that the current House Speaker is indeed seeking another term.
“He will definitely run again for speakership,” Paduano added.
When asked in a media interview whom he would support for the speakership if he were still a member of the incoming 20th Congress, Paduano said he would choose Romualdez to ensure continuity of policies and programs in the legislature.
Under Romualdez’s leadership, the House of Representatives reportedly outperformed the Senate in public satisfaction ratings, garnering 55.77 percent compared to the Senate’s 43 percent.
Earlier, Benitez stated in a press conference that he has no plans to seek the speakership and has taken no steps toward that direction.
“The choice will be up to my colleagues in Congress. Whatever is best for the House of Representatives and the country — that should be the guiding principle,” Benitez said./PN
