Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez delivers his message at the plenary hall of the House of Representatives during the resumption of session of Congress Monday (Jan. 13, 2025). Among others, he vowed that the House of Representatives would continue to pursue its investigations that aim to eventually bring down prices of rice, other food items and electricity. “Let us build a nation where every Filipino, no matter their station, feels the hand of government working for their benefit,” he exhorted his colleagues.
HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to conducting investigations aimed at addressing the rising costs of food and electricity during the resumption of the 19th Congress’ session on Monday, following its Christmas recess.
“Good governance demands transparency and accountability. This chamber is the vanguard of that principle,” Speaker Romualdez told his colleagues. He announced a series of oversight hearings focused on smuggling and hoarding that inflate food prices and undermine farmers, as well as alleged ₱206 billion in disallowed expenditures by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).
The Speaker emphasized the need to ensure energy reforms that reduce electricity costs. “We will investigate ₱11.18 billion worth of expired medicines and underutilized PhilHealth funds—an affront to every Filipino who struggles for access to healthcare,” he added.
The Quinta Comm and the Committee on Ways and Means have already initiated probes into the high cost of rice, agricultural products, electricity, and alleged violations by NGCP, a transmission monopoly partially owned by Chinese interests.
“Let this be our promise: public trust is sacred, and this House will never betray it,” Romualdez declared. Addressing critics of the investigations, he said, “Itutuloy natin ang trabahong ini-atang sa atin ng mamamayan. Hindi tayo aatras sa anumang laban para sa bayan.”
House Achievements and Legislative Agenda
Romualdez lauded the House’s accomplishments in 2024, noting the country’s resilience amid economic challenges. He highlighted early projections of a 5.9% to 6.5% growth rate despite typhoons and global uncertainties, crediting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Build, Better, More” infrastructure program, which injected over ₱1.2 trillion into transformative projects.
However, the Speaker acknowledged the ongoing burden of inflation despite its easing to 4.9%. He emphasized that economic progress must translate to better lives for Filipinos, asking, “Para saan ang pag-unlad kung hindi makikinabang ang ordinaryong Pilipino?”
The Speaker also noted the passage of 183 laws in 2024, focusing on their transformative impact:
The CREATE MORE Act fostering investments and jobs.
The Self-Reliant Defense Posture Act to enhance national security and create skilled jobs.
The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act targeting smuggling and profiteering.
The Philippine Maritime Zones Act and Philippine Archipelagic Sealanes Act asserting sovereignty and boosting the maritime economy.
The ARAL Act addressing educational gaps for Filipino youth.
“These are not just policies—they are commitments to a better, fairer, and stronger nation,” he said.
Global Leadership and Upcoming Events
Romualdez highlighted the Philippines’ growing role on the global stage. He announced that the country will host the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF) next month, involving 96 nations in discussions on global security, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Additionally, the Philippines will chair ASEAN in 2026 and host the 47th AIPA General Assembly.
“The $100 billion in investments secured through state visits reflects international confidence in our nation’s future,” he said, adding that these investments will transform industries and push the country toward prosperity.
Call for Unity and Service
Romualdez urged his colleagues to legislate with empathy and integrity. “Let us build a nation where every Filipino, no matter their station, feels the hand of government working for their benefit,” he said.
He concluded with a vision of inclusivity and progress: “Walang maiiwan. Sama-sama nating itutulak ang batas na mag-aangat sa buhay ng bawat Pilipino.”
About the Author
