Romualdez's resignation labeled as a calculated political move by the Vice President
In a significant turn of events, Vice President Sara Duterte has suggested that the recent shake-up in the House leadership, including the resignation of Speaker Martin Romualdez, is part of a broader political strategy between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Romualdez to influence the passage of the 2026 national budget and strengthen their political footing for the 2028 presidential elections.
The revelation came during the opening of the 27th Davao Agri-Trade Expo and the 8th Davao Investment Conference at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, on September 18. Duterte did not comment directly on Romualdez's resignation on September 17.
Meanwhile, Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy "Zaldy" Co, who has been linked to Romualdez, is currently in the United States receiving medical care. House spokesperson Princess Abante clarified on September 4 that Co was absent with notice twice, absent without notice three times, and excused seven times between July 29 and August 27. Opposition lawmakers have noted that Co has not been seen in plenary sessions for weeks.
Romualdez's replacement, Faustino "Bojie" Dy III, is a scion of the influential Dy political clan of Isabela. Dy first entered politics in 1998 as Cauayan City mayor and later served as Isabela governor starting in 2010. Unlike Romualdez, Dy is closely tied to Isabela Governor Rodolfo "Rodito" Albano and Deputy Speaker Antonio "Tonypet" Albano. Governor Rodolfo "Rodito" Albano and Deputy Speaker Antonio "Tonypet" Albano were once part of Romualdez's circle, according to Duterte.
Duterte believes that Romualdez's resignation was a calculated political move with President Marcos Jr.'s backing. She warned the public not to be deceived by the timing of Romualdez's resignation and stated that Romualdez should still be held accountable for alleged corruption. Duterte pointed to Romualdez's "lavish lifestyle" and use of public funds to buy properties abroad as evidence of corruption.
Despite his ties to the Albano family, Duterte does not consider Faustino "Bojie" Dy III a warlord, but believes Governor Rodolfo "Rodito" Albano holds power in Isabela. Duterte met Faustino "Bojie" Dy III several times and considers him a good person.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Duterte is set to leave for Japan this evening. The developments in the House leadership and the allegations of corruption remain a topic of intense debate and discussion in Philippine politics.
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