NEWLY elected Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez of Quezon province didn’t mince words as he fired back at former Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez’s recent accusations, labeling them as “baseless and a misguided attempt to sow discord within the House of Representatives.”
Suarez likewise underscored the critical need for constructive dialogue within Congress while dismissing Alvarez’s claims as “nothing more than a futile attempt to derail progress.”
The Deputy Speaker was responding to Alvarez’s recent TV interview, where he questioned the legitimacy of the ongoing “people’s initiative” to amend the 1987 Constitution, alleging Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s involvement—a claim consistently refuted by House leadership, fellow lawmakers, and advocacy groups genuinely pushing for constitutional reforms.
Alvarez, currently representing Davao del Norte’s first district in Congress, also mentioned in the interview his alleged struggle to grasp the necessity for constitutional changes, particularly citing economic justifications.
In a scathing response, Suarez—an outspoken advocate for economic constitutional amendments—lambasted Alvarez for his sudden reversal and “wild, baseless and reckless” allegations against Speaker Romualdez.
The lawmaker from Quezon’s second district dismissed Alvarez’s claims, denouncing them as devoid of any factual basis and a blatant attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the current constitutional economic reforms process.
“Former Speaker Alvarez’s allegations are not just unfounded; they reek of desperation and a disregard for the truth. Accusing Speaker Romualdez of orchestrating the ‘People’s Initiative’ without a shred of concrete evidence is not only irresponsible but also a clear attempt to destabilize our legislative proceedings,” Suarez said.
Glaring hypocricy
Suarez cited the glaring hypocrisy in Alvarez’s accusations, pointing out that the former Speaker himself had been an ardent proponent of constitutional change during the early stages of the Duterte administration.
He also noted that Alvarez was one of the 301 House members who voted in March last year in favor of Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6, which calls for the establishment of a constitutional convention to amend the 1987 Constitution.
“This underscores the inconsistency in former Speaker Alvarez’s current stance on constitutional reforms, considering his prior support for RBH 6 last year,” Suarez emphasized.
According to Suarez, Alvarez’s shift in stance raises questions about the sincerity of his concerns and whether his motives are driven by personal vendettas or genuine considerations for the country’s welfare.
“It’s baffling that someone who vigorously pushed for constitutional reforms in the past is now attempting to cast doubt on the very process he once championed. This raises serious questions about the credibility and sincerity of his current objections,” Suarez remarked.
In no uncertain terms, Suarez emphasized that the ongoing constitutional discussions adhere meticulously to the letter of the law and the constitutionally mandated processes.
Divisive tactics
He called on fellow lawmakers to reject Alvarez’s “divisive tactics” and refocus their “collective energy on the paramount goal of serving the interests of the Filipino people and enhancing the nation’s governance.”
“It’s regrettable that instead of contributing constructively to the ongoing constitutional discussions, former Speaker Alvarez has chosen to indulge in baseless mudslinging. Our priority should be the well-being of our constituents, not engaging in petty political theatrics,” Suarez asserted.
At the same time, Suarez dismissed Alvarez’s allegations that funding for infrastructure projects in congressional districts outside the supermajority is being shifted to the unprogrammed funds in the national budget. Alvarez said he was concerned about the supposedly growing unprogrammed funds, comparing them to lump sums akin to pork barrel allocations.
Suarez responded, saying, “The use of unprogrammed funds strictly adheres to transparent and legal processes. Our commitment to financial transparency is unwavering, and every allocation and reallocation undergoes rigorous scrutiny to ensure adherence to established protocols.”
Based on merit
Addressing Alvarez’s hint at potential fund removals affecting House members not aligned with the supermajority, Suarez dismissed any allegations of discrimination.
“Decisions within Congress are made based on merit, and our leadership ensures inclusivity and fairness in every aspect of our legislative agenda,” Suarez stressed.
In reply to Alvarez’s objection to the supermajority’s push for constitutional amendment, Suarez highlighted the significance of an active legislative agenda.
“The suggested changes aim to meet the changing needs of our nation. Our dedication to progress propels the push for constitutional change, centered on shared goals for the benefit of the Filipino people,” Suarez said.
The Deputy Speaker then rallied his colleagues, urging them to stand firm in their commitment to amending outdated economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution which, he said, prevent the country from realizing its full economic potential.
He also stressed the imperative of presenting a united front to confront the challenges facing the nation and voiced unwavering confidence in Speaker Romualdez’s leadership.
“Speaker Romualdez has demonstrated unwavering dedication to our shared objectives. Under his guidance, we have the strength to navigate the complexities of constitutional amendments and emerge stronger as a legislative body,” Suarez said.
