SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday expressed strong support and admiration for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for delivering a “comprehensive, powerful and uplifting” State of the Nation Address (SONA), particularly praising his decisive stance on national sovereignty, significant economic reforms and commitment to public safety and social stability.
The leader of the 300-plus members House of Representatives commended President Marcos for his bold pronouncements on the issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the total ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
“The President’s declaration that the WPS is rightfully ours is a powerful assertion of our national sovereignty,” Speaker Romualdez said, reacting to the President’s assertion that the WPS is not just an imagination, but a reality belonging to the Philippines.
According to the Speaker, the President’s expression of gratitude to the military, Coast Guard, and fisherfolk for their relentless efforts in defending the WPS “underscores their vital role in upholding national integrity.”
He said the President’s emphasis on using diplomatic channels to resolve territorial disputes “highlights our unwavering commitment to peaceful and lawful means of protecting our interests.”
“The message that the Philippines cannot yield or waver in its stance is crucial for maintaining our national pride and asserting our rightful claims,” he added.
Romualdez commended the President’s decision to ban all POGOs and to instruct the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to wind down POGO operations by the end of the year.
“This bold move underscores the President’s commitment to lawful economic practices,” the Speaker said.
The House chief said that the President tasking the Department of Labor and Employment to find jobs for POGO workers who will be displaced by his directive “shows a compassionate approach to the transition.”
He likewise praised the President’s continued focus on a bloodless war against illegal drugs.
“The President’s stance that extermination is not a policy of this government, along with the significant reduction of drug-affected villages, the interception of billions of pesos worth of illegal drugs, and the high conviction rate of drug offenders, are commendable achievements. This approach ensures community safety while upholding human rights,”Romualdez emphasized.
The Speaker also highlighted the President’s accomplishments, particularly in achieving economic gains.
“President Marcos’ leadership has resulted in significant economic improvements, including job creation, infrastructure development, and advancements in digital infrastructure,” he said.
“His administration’s efforts in agriculture, disaster risk management, and health reforms have been instrumental in uplifting the lives of many Filipinos,” he added.
Speaker Romualdez praised the comprehensive nature of the SONA, covering all critical aspects of national development.
“The President addressed key areas such as economic and health reforms, job creation, digital infrastructure, peace and order, anti-corruption measures, and the power crisis. This holistic approach is essential for the sustainable progress of our nation,” he stressed.
Romualdez assured the full support of the bigger chamber in enacting the necessary legislation to realize the President’s vision.
“We stand ready to work with the administration to pass laws that will bring these plans to fruition. The House is committed to supporting the President’s goals of national sovereignty, economic reform, and public safety,” he said.
The Speaker called on all Filipinos to unite behind the President’s leadership.
“Together, we can achieve the prosperous and progressive Philippines we all aspire for. Let us support President Marcos’ leadership and work towards a brighter future for our nation,” he urged.
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