Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez stood firm on the constitutional authority of the House of Representatives to initiate impeachment proceedings, in a speech following his re-election as Speaker during the opening of the 20th Congress' first regular session on Monday, July 28.
Speaking to the lower chamber on Monday, Romualdez said that while the House respects the Court’s ruling, it does not relinquish its constitutional duty to pursue truth and accountability.
“The Court may close a case, but it cannot close a cause. The pursuit of accountability is not our moment; it is our mandate,” he said.
The SC earlier declared the impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte “unconstitutional,” citing a violation of the “one-year bar rule,” which prohibits filing multiple impeachment cases against the same official within a year.
“Let me say this with the utmost respect: the Supreme Court has spoken and we recognize its decision. But let it never be said that the House of the People bowed in silence,” he added, asserting that the lower chamber would not allow its constitutional mandate to be undermined.
Romualdez reminded lawmakers and the public that the power to initiate impeachment rests solely with the House of Representatives.
“At a time we draw a line. The power to initiate impeachment is the exclusive domain of the chamber. It flows from the people’s will and rests solely on the clear language of the Constitution. It is neither granted nor guided by any outside institution,” he said.
In his speech, Romualdez emphasized that accountability in public office transcends legal technicalities and political affiliations.
He further stressed that the impeachment process is not motivated by politics or personalities but by principles.
“We are not moved by personalities, but by principles. We are not driven by vendetta, but instead by vigilance. Our goal has never been to destroy. Only to demand the truth. When institutions falter, the House of the people always stand firm,” Romualdez declared.
“When others fear the storm, your House holds the line,” he affirmed.
While the House acknowledged the Supreme Court’s authority, Romualdez’s remarks served as a pointed reminder that the legislative body intends to assert its independence, particularly in matters of public accountability.
Romualdez formally took his oath as the Speaker for the 20th Congress after a majority vote from the plenary.
