House removes Arroyo, Ungab as deputy speakers

The House of Representatives on Tuesday removed former President and Pampanga lawmaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Davao City Representative Isidro Ungab as deputy speakers.

This developed after the House plenary approved the motion made by House Deputy Majority Leader Ramon Nolasco Jr. of Cagayan. 

Arroyo and Ungab were replaced by Isabela congressman Tonypet Albano and Lanao del Sur Representative Yasser Alonto Balindong, respectively.

The removal of Arroyo and Ungab came a day after Speaker Martin Romualdez vowed to fight those who would malign the House, and Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio ''Dong'' Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga named former President Rodrigo Duterte as the one who maligned the House by calling it the “most rotten” institution.

Duterte's criticism followed the House's decision to strip Vice President Sara Duterte of confidential funds in next year's national budget.

The House then adopted House Resolution 1414 upholding the integrity and honor of the chamber and expressing appreciation, solidarity, and support for the leadership of Romualdez.

''This decision stems from the fact that out of the nine Deputy Speakers, only Deputy Speakers Macapagal-Arroyo and Ungab chose not to sign a pivotal House resolution sponsored by the entire leadership,'' House Majority Leader Manuel Jose ''Mannix'' Dalipe said about replacing the two veteran lawmakers. 

''This particular resolution was of paramount importance, as it manifested the collective intention of the House leadership to rise in unison in defense of the institution. This resolution was a response to certain quarters that have recently levied criticisms and scurrilous attacks against the House and its leadership,'' he added. 

Ungab said he accepted his fate ''without any rancor nor bitterness.''

''I accept the decision of the House leadership to remove me from my position as Deputy Speaker. I have been in Congress long enough to understand the dynamics and interpersonal relations among its members,'' he said.

''I leave the deputy speakership’s position assured that I have performed my duties well, with the best intentions and great love for my country.''

He also said that he remains supportive of the Marcos administration.

Arroyo has yet to issue a statement on the matter.

''The House leadership respects the right of each member to their individual opinions and decisions. However, leadership positions come with certain responsibilities and expectations,” Dalipe said.

“One of these expectations is to be aligned with the collective decisions of the leadership, especially on matters of significant importance to the institution. By choosing not to sign the resolution, Deputy Speakers Macapagal-Arroyo and Ungab have demonstrated that their perspectives differ from the collective stance of the leadership,” he added. 

Both Arroyo and Ungab are known allies of the Dutertes. —VBL, GMA Integrated News