Speaker Romualdez expresses full support for PBBM as ‘symbol of nation’s sovereignty’ vs all threats

THE House of Representatives, led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, has declared its full support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. as a “symbol of the nation’s sovereignty” and vowed to use the extent of its mandate to thwart any attempts to destabilize the government and undermine the Chief Executive’s leadership.

The declaration was made through a Manifesto of Support, which the lawmakers led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez presented to President Marcos on Wednesday night during the Christmas fellowship at Malacañang, which comes amid the threats to the life of the Chief Executive made by Vice President Sara Duterte and her camp’s calls for mobilization against the administration.

“Guided by the Philippine Constitution as the supreme law of the land, we, the Members of the House of Representatives of the Republic of the Philippines, reaffirm our unwavering commitment to defend the democratic institutions and sovereignty of our nation,” the manifesto said. 

It highlighted the legislature’s unity in safeguarding democratic principles and national stability. The House members declared loyalty to President Marcos, who was elected by 31 million Filipinos – the highest mandate from the Filipino people by any president in the country’s history.

“The Philippine Constitution entrusts us with the solemn duty to protect the nation from threats – both internal and external – that seek to undermine our independence, security and democracy. Recognizing the significant challenges facing the President and his administration, we unite in declaring our firm support for the President and his vision for a Bagong Pilipinas,” the manifesto read.

The manifesto of support by the House of Representatives was signed by Speaker Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, Agusan del Norte Rep. Jose “Joboy” S. Aquino II, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) secretary general; Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte, National Unity Party (NUP) president;  Rizal Rep. Michael John R. Duavit, Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) president; Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Nacionalista Party (NP) stalwart; San Jose del Monte Rep. Florida “Risa” Robes, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) member; and Navotas Rep. Tobias “Toby” M. Tiangco, Partido Navoteño president. 

The leaders of the House of Representatives also presented President Marcos with a copy of Resolution No. 277, previously adopted as House Resolution (HR) No. 2092, entitled, “Expressing the unwavering and unqualified support and solidarity of the House of Representatives to the leadership of His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and the Honorable Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in the face of serious and dangerous remarks and defiant acts that threaten the very foundation of democratic governance, rule of law, and public trust and integrity of government institutions.”

Under the manifesto of support, it outlined five key principles and commitments in support of President Marcos and his administration.

First, it emphasized defending the President as the symbol of the nation’s sovereignty, stating, “The Constitution vests executive power in the President, making him the embodiment of the people’s will and the nation’s unity. Any threat against the President is a threat against the Republic. We shall remain vigilant and resolute in ensuring his safety and the stability of his administration.”

Second, it highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and democratic governance, asserting, “The Constitution enshrines the principles of democracy, justice and the rule of law. We categorically condemn any attempts to destabilize the government or subvert the administration’s programs aimed at advancing national progress.”

Third, the manifesto reaffirmed the commitment to protecting the nation from internal and external threats, declaring, “As mandated by the Constitution, we commit to mobilizing all legislative resources to safeguard the Republic against threats to its independence, security and peace. We will support initiatives that strengthen national defense, public order and social stability.”

Fourth, it underscored the significance of legislative unity for the nation’s welfare, stating, “We recognize that unity among branches of government is critical to achieving national goals. Guided by constitutional principles, we will work in partnership with the President to pass laws that address the most pressing concerns of our people.”

Finally, the House pledged to ensure the President’s mandate is fulfilled, asserting, “In accordance with the Constitution, we pledge to protect the integrity of the President’s mandate, enabling him to lead the country effectively toward sustainable development, good governance, and genuine reform.”

These principles affirm the House’s full support for the President’s leadership and its commitment to protecting the nation’s democratic institutions and sovereignty.

In the manifesto, the House condemned efforts to destabilize the government and emphasized its role in supporting President Marcos’ administration. 

“At all costs, we will stand united with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to uphold and defend the Constitution, ensure the welfare of our people and safeguard the future of our nation.”

“We, the Members of the House of Representatives, solemnly affirm that our collective strength lies in the unity of purpose, fidelity to our democratic principles, and unwavering commitment to serve the Filipino people.”

“Together, let us rally behind our President to protect and preserve the gains of democracy as we build a stronger, more united and more prosperous Republic.”