House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is the priority of President Marcos. 

House Speaker Martin Romualdez made sure to highlight this during his speech at the HOR-AFP Fellowship at the Tejeros Hall in Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday night, Dec. 13. 

"Our commander-in-chief has instilled in us that you have been the priority ever since he assumed office," Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives, told the AFP members. 

"And ever since he participated in the first service command (conference) here in Camp Aguinaldo, he called upon me to remind all the members of the House to respect, to protect, to support the men and women in uniform particularly the AFP," he added. 

President Marcos took over the reins in Malacañang on June 30, 2022. He won that year's elections via historic majority vote. 

Romualdez said the camaraderie between members of the House and the military “goes beyond the camaraderie of sport - it reflects the unity and collective strength of the nation". 

“As we work together, we are reminded that irrespective of our roles in the country, we are part of one team - Team Philippines. Let this fellowship today be a testament to our commitment to working together and learning from each other and to build the nation where every filipino can strive,” he said. 

AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner invited the Speaker to the fellowship and the golf competition that preceded it. 

Romualdez, Leyte’s 1st district congressman, said the golf match was a reminder to everyone “of the essential role sportsmanship plays in not just games but in the larger arena of nation-building". 

“Sportsmanship, at its core, is about respect, integrity and fairness. These are not just principles for a game, but they are the bedrock of a strong, cohesive society,” he added. 

He pointed out that on the golf course, players learn to respect each other’s game, observe fair play, and accept outcomes with grace. 

“These lessons extend far beyond the greens; they guide us in our legislative chambers and military strategies, fostering a spirt of mutual respect and understanding,” stressed Romualdez. 

The House leader said the HOR-AFP fellowship symbolizes the partnership between the legislature and the military. 

“This partnership is crucial in navigating complex challenges our nation faces. Together, we can chart a course towards peace, security and prosperity,” he said. 

He thanked General Brawner for organizing the fellowship and the golf contest, and HOR and AFP members for participating in the twin events.