REPRESENTATIVE Alfredo Garbin Jr. of the Ako Bicol Partylist issued a statement today rejecting Senator Imee Marcos’ call for the resignation of the House leadership.
Garbin emphasized the House’s unity and the legitimacy of Speaker Martin Romualdez’s position, which he stated was chosen by a supermajority of duly elected representatives.
“If Senator Marcos is willing to surrender the Senate’s powers to the Supreme Court, that’s a matter for their chamber,” Garbin said. “However, the House stands united behind Speaker Romualdez. Our leadership reflects the democratic will of the supermajority and cannot be overturned by a single Senator’s call.”
Garbin highlighted the House’s history of resisting external pressure, including instances of perceived encroachment on its constitutional duties by the Supreme Court. He characterized Senator Marcos’ call as “political maneuvering” and asserted the House’s independence as a co-equal branch of government.
“Senator Marcos is free to express her opinions within the Senate,” Garbin stated. “But she must refrain from interfering in the House’s internal affairs. The House will not abdicate its authority based on external pressure.”
Garbin concluded by reaffirming the House’s commitment to the supermajority’s decision. He indicated that any leadership changes would originate from within the House through the established democratic process. Until then, he declared, Speaker Romualdez’s leadership remains firm.
