Speaker Martin Romualdez (Photo courtesy of Speaker's office)
MANILA – Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday said the House of Representatives is “heartened” by reports that the Senate will commence hearings on Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 next week, saying the move marks a “significant step” towards the much-awaited constitutional amendments.
“As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I await with great anticipation the outcomes of these Senate deliberations. The prospect of amending and potentially easing certain restrictive provisions in the 1987 Constitution is more than a legislative exercise; it is a great stride towards realizing the aspirations of our people and unlocking the full potential of our nation,” Romualdez said in a statement released to media.
According to reports, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said next week's hearing on RBH 6 will be undertaken by a subcommittee headed by Senator Sonny Angara.
Romualdez said Zubiri's announcement demonstrates “a united legislative front” in addressing crucial changes that have the potential to shape the future of the country.
He also assured that the House stands ready to collaborate and contribute to this “significant legislative endeavor” which, he said, will help realize the shared common goal between both chambers of Congress – to ensure that any amendments to the Constitution serve the best interests of the Filipino people and lay a strong foundation for a more prosperous and equitable Philippines.
Party stalwarts in the House of Representatives have earlier expressed their commitment to fully adopt HBH 6 as passed by the Senate with “no questions asked.”
RBH 6 was filed by Zubiri, along with Angara and Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda.
Resolution supporting Romualdez
Meanwhile, the House leadership announced that they will file a resolution expressing "unwavering support" for Romualdez’s leadership amid the clash between the Senate and House over the push for Charter change.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said the resolution would also uphold the integrity and honor of the House "in the face of intense assault from the Senate", violating the principle of interparliamentary courtesy and causing undue interference in the performance of its legislative and constituent function.
Some senators claimed that the people’s initiative to pursue Charter change had stemmed from the House of Representatives.
Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe said the filing of the resolution was agreed upon during an all-member caucus. (PNA)
