Tensions flared between the Senate and the House of Representatives after Senator Imee Marcos publicly called for the replacement of House Speaker Martin Romualdez, prompting strong rebukes from several House leaders who said the senator had no right to interfere in the internal affairs of the lower chamber.
In separate statements, House Senior Deputy Speaker “Jay-Jay” Suarez emphasized that the Senate has no authority to dictate who should lead the House.
“The decision on House leadership rests solely with its members,” Suarez said, noting that the majority of representatives continue to support Romualdez’s speakership.
House Deputy Speaker Jay Khonghun echoed Suarez’s sentiments, urging Senator Marcos to exercise restraint in her public statements.
“There are limits to what can be said in public, especially when it undermines the integrity of another institution,” Khonghun said. He stressed the importance of respecting the independence of co-equal branches of government.
Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre also weighed in, calling for an end to political mudslinging and backdoor intrigues.
“We must uphold mutual respect among branches of government, even in times of disagreement,” Acidre said. He added that accountability should be pursued at all levels, including among the highest officials.
Meanwhile, in a separate interview with Bombo Radyo, Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila De Lima expressed disappointment over the Senate’s decision to archive the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
“It’s disheartening,” De Lima said, criticizing the senators’ vote as a setback for transparency and accountability. (JCNE)
