House Speaker Martin Romualdez is expected to retain his post with little to no opposition when the 20th Congress convenes on July 28, with a dominant majority of lawmakers already backing his leadership.
Rep. Jude Acidre of the Tingog party-list affirmed that the race for the speakership has long been decided. “The question of speakership has already been resolved many, many weeks ago,” he told reporters, emphasizing that the Leyte congressman enjoys the support of 287 out of 317 incoming House members.
Romualdez, a cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., was Speaker during the 19th Congress and played a central role in pushing key legislative priorities aligned with the administration’s economic roadmap. His reelection is scheduled on the same day the President will deliver his fourth State of the Nation Address.
While names like former Bacolod mayor and returning lawmaker Albee Benitez and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco have been floated as potential challengers, neither has secured a significant bloc to mount a credible bid.
According to Acidre, the strong show of support is a sign of unity. “Honestly, I have not even thought about that speakership fight for a long time now. Our support for Congressman Martin Romualdez to be the next speaker of the House remains strong as ever,” he said.
Observers believe that Romualdez’s early consolidation of support signals continuity and stability, which are critical as the House tackles key policies under the Marcos administration.
