BACOLOD City — Bacolod Lone District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez vowed to intensify efforts to advance the needs of Bacolodnons following his election as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Benitez was elected to the post during the regular session of the 20th Congress on March 18, joining the chamber’s leadership in what he described as both an honor and a greater responsibility to his constituents.
In a statement, Benitez expressed gratitude to House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III and his fellow lawmakers for their trust and confidence, emphasizing that his new role would further strengthen his capacity to deliver for Bacolod.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty—not only to the House, but especially to the people of Bacolod who entrusted me with the privilege to represent them,” he said.
Benitez underscored that his elevation to Deputy Speaker serves as both a mandate and an opportunity to advance policies addressing local concerns while contributing to national development.
“As I serve in this expanded capacity, I remain firmly committed to ensuring that the needs of Bacolodnons are addressed,” he said. “At the same time, I will help shape policies that uplift communities across the Visayas and the entire country.”
The lawmaker also acknowledged the support of the Visayan bloc, stressing the importance of stronger regional representation in national decision-making. He assured constituents that their voices would be amplified in Congress.
Benitez was elected alongside Pangasinan Rep. Maria Rachel Arenas and Cebu Rep. Vincent Franco Frasco following their nomination by Majority Floor Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos. The motion was approved by Speaker Dy, formalizing their appointments to the House leadership.
With his new post, Benitez vowed to work closely with fellow legislators to advance a more responsive and compassionate government while strengthening cooperation within the House.
He also emphasized the need to restore public trust in Congress, committing to help build an institution that “listens, acts, and delivers” for the Filipino people.
For Bacolod, Benitez’s leadership role signals a stronger voice at the national level—one he said will be used to ensure that the city’s priorities remain at the forefront of legislative action./PN
