MARIKINA 2nd District Representative Stella Quimbo has been appointed as the acting chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Secretary General Reginald Velasco announced on Tuesday.
The appointment follows the resignation of Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy Co, who cited health concerns.
Velasco clarified that a Monday night meeting with Speaker Martin Romualdez focused solely on managing the appropriations panel following the vacancy, not on the impeachment complaints filed against Vice President Sara Duterte, as some speculated.
“No, the Speaker and I did not talk about the impeachment. We talked about the change in the appropriations panel… I think it will be senior vice-chair, Congresswoman Stella Quimbo,” Velasco stated. He confirmed Quimbo’s acceptance of the acting role, emphasizing her seniority within the committee. “She’s member number two, so that means in terms of seniority. But that’s only in an acting capacity,” he explained, noting that a permanent chair would require plenary approval.
The vacancy was declared on Monday during the resumption of Congress’ session, with Senior Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos making the motion, which Speaker Romualdez approved. No reason was initially given for Co’s removal.
Co subsequently released a statement explaining his resignation due to undisclosed health issues. “This decision, made with a heavy heart, is driven by pressing health concerns. The highly demanding nature of my role has taken its toll, and I now need to prioritize seeking the medical attention necessary for my well-being,” Co said. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as appropriations chair.
Quimbo’s appointment as acting chair provides a temporary solution to the leadership void within the crucial appropriations committee. The process for selecting a permanent replacement remains pending. The focus now shifts to the committee’s continued work on the national budget under Quimbo’s interim leadership.
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