House Speaker Martin Romualdez delivered a stern warning to public officials on Monday, declaring that the House of Representatives will not tolerate hypocrisy, evasion, or the misuse of public funds.
In a forceful statement at the opening of plenary deliberations on the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025, Romualdez signaled that the House would take a zero-tolerance approach toward those who undermine accountability while conveniently ignoring their own malfeasance.
He told his colleagues that “we cannot ignore the reality that there are those who seek to undermine our work — critics who speak of accountability while conveniently ignoring their own misuse of public funds.”
“To these individuals, I say, let us be clear: this chamber will not tolerate hypocrisy, nor will it stand idle in the face of such blatant disregard for public trust,” he said.
Romualdez emphasized that the House has long upheld the principles of transparency and accountability, ensuring that every government expenditure is scrutinized with precision and aligned with national priorities. He reinforced that public funds must be used solely for the benefit of the people, not for personal enrichment.
“Ang pera ng bayan ay hindi para sa pansariling pakinabang ng iilan. Tungkulin natin na tiyakin na bawat piso ay ginagamit para sa kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan,” he stressed.
The Speaker assured the public that the House would remain uncompromising in its defense of good governance, fiscal responsibility, and the protection of taxpayers’ money. He made it clear that no individual or special interest would be given undue favor or consideration.
“This House answers to no one but the people. We will stand firm against pressure or influence, and we will guard every peso as if it were our own. The eyes of the nation are on us, and we will not fail them.
“Walang makakalusot sa ating pagsusuri. Tayo ang boses at mata ng taumbayan, at sa kanilang pangalan, tayo ang magbabantay laban sa pag-abuso at korapsiyon,” added Romualdez.
