Palace: Executive had no hand in House appropriations panel leadership change

Malacañang on Wednesday denied that it had a hand in the removal of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co as chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations. 

In an ambush interview, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin also said he had no opinion on the matter, adding that what happened was the discretion of Congress. 

"Executive kami,'' Bersamin said in reference to the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches of government.

The House of Representatives during the resumption of session on Monday approved the motion of Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos declaring the position as vacant.

In a separate statement, Co said he stepped down as House appropriations panel chair due to health reasons.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the majority in Congress for graciously accepting my decision to step down as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. This decision, made with a heavy heart, is driven by pressing health concerns," Co said.

"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,” he added.

The lawmaker added that he has “always served at the pleasure of the majority.” —NB, GMA Integrated News