Ilocos Norte Representative Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos is being eyed for a key leadership role in the House of Representatives as discussions intensify ahead of the 20th Congress.
La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega confirmed in a press conference on Thursday that Marcos, who previously held the role of Senior Deputy Majority Leader, is among those being considered for the position of House Majority Leader.
“The name of [former] Senior Deputy Majority Leader Marcos is being floated around. He is very much qualified,” Ortega said.
However, he stressed that the final decision will depend on multiple factors, not just name recognition or seniority. “There are many qualified members of the House for leadership positions. And regardless of the title, we need to see the work ethic. That is all I know so far,” he added.
Ortega, who served as assistant majority leader during the 19th Congress, said that while seniority holds weight, other qualities such as responsibility, collaboration, and leadership style are crucial in selecting the next Majority Leader.
“It is also about being responsible, building relationships… We need teamwork to shepherd the passage of bills,” he said. Ortega noted that newer members of the House have also been given space to grow, pointing to the training and experience gained by first-term legislators like Marcos.
Marcos, son of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is entering his second term as Ilocos Norte congressman. He held a senior leadership role during his first term, under the 19th Congress led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, his uncle and the president’s cousin.
