MANILA, Philippines — Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino Dy was being eyed to replace House Speaker Martin Romualdez as rumors of a coup swirled at the House of Representatives Tuesday.
Sources said a change in leadership at the House may happen on Wednesday, Sept. 17. One lawmaker said Dy may be installed as acting speaker and Romualdez, a first cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., may take a temporary leave of absence.
Talk of a possible change in leadership came after the House ended its session 30 minutes after it started.
There were reports that Romualdez went to Malacañang on Tuesday, accompanied by Majority Floor Leader Sandro Marcos, the president’s son.
Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco, who earlier bared budget insertions made by Rep. Zaldy Co in the 2025 budget, said he is not interested in the speakership even if there were offers for him to run as speaker.
“We are supportive of the president, so we are not going to take any action that we think is not right,” Tiangco said.
Earlier, Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco Barzaga said he is willing to take on Romualdez for the House leadership.
“I am a very open person, I am going to take Speaker Romualdez’s speakership and I hope Majority Leader Sandro Marcos won’t hold it against me and won’t stand against me,” Barzaga said.
Bacolod City Rep. Albee Benitez was also among several lawmakers who questioned the leadership of Romualdez.
“To continue expressing support for him now would only be seen as condoning and protecting him,” said Benitez, citing the controversial flood control projects, questionable budget allocations and a lack of transparency in the budget process.
WITH EUGENE ADIONG
