In a bid to “sustain the country’s economic growth and secure the safety of the people,” some 184 lawmakers have ousted Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez as speaker of the Lower House and replaced him with Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (Pamp-2nd Dist.).
The former president is the first woman and the oldest ever (age 71 at time of appointment) to become House of Representatives Speaker in Philippine history.
In a resolution signed by some 184 lawmakers, it said the “Duterte administration has reached the mid-point of its term, now more than at any point, is there a need to support the Administration with a pro-active legislative agenda that will safeguard the nation’s economic growth and secure the safety of our people.” 12 lawmakers abstained from voting in the House.
The resolution stated that “the House of Representatives and the nation, will benefit from the experience, competence, sobriety, steady and unifying leadership of former President and Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, as speaker of the House of Representatives.”
“We believe furthermore, that as many critical issues involving the future structure and framework of our government will need to be discussed very soon, a credible and competent House leadership will be needed to guide and steer the national debate towards a resolution of these pending issues that will strengthen the Republic in the years to come.”
Rep. Arroyo reportedly have the backing of presidential daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio in the latest political developments amid rumors that Alvarez will be replaced as House Speaker.
Alvarez, who represents the 1st district of Davao del Norte, was booted out on Monday afternoon, July 23, when the 17th Congress opened its 3rd regular session. Macapagal-Arroyo was sworn in as new House Speaker on the same day.