Davao Oriental 2nd district Rep. Cheeno Almariocouldn't help but feel "disheartened" over former president Rodrigo Duterte's attacks on the House of Representatives, which he described as "uncalled for".
Mindanao solon says ex-president Duterte's attacks vs House 'uncalled for'
Oct 16, 2023 00:40 AM
At a glance
Davao Oriental 2nd district Rep. Cheeno Almario (left) and former president Rodrigo Duterte (Facebook, Malacañang photo)
Davao Oriental 2nd district Rep. Cheeno Almario couldn't help but feel "disheartened" over former president Rodrigo Duterte's attacks on the House of Representatives, which he described as "uncalled for".
At the same time, Almario attested to Speaker Martin Romualdez's capability in leading the House of Representatives, which ironically Duterte once called his home for three years.
"As a proud neophyte member of the House of Representatives, I wish to express my unwavering support for our esteemed Speaker, Martin Romualdez, and the leadership of the House," Almario said in a Facebook post at Monday midnight, Oct. 16.
"Under Speaker Romualdez's guidance, the House has consistently demonstrated its commitment to good governance, transparency, and the welfare of the Filipino people. Being a part of this great institution gives me great pride and joy," he added.
"It is disheartening to hear the recent remarks made by our former president. While everyone is entitled to their opinions, it is essential to base such opinions on facts and not let personal grievances cloud judgment," Almario said, referring to Duterte.
In a television interview on Oct. 10, ex-president Duterte linked Congress and Romualdez to alleged misuse of public funds. He claimed the that the legislature ought to be audited in order to show Filipinos how taxpayers' money is spent.
Duterte--who served as Davao congressman from 1998 to 2001--also tagged Congress as “the most rotten institution” in the country.
Almario's Facebook post came with a statement from House Secretary General Reginald Velasco which said that the Commission on Audit (COA) itself, as per an Oct. 2 audit report, found no disallowances, no notice of suspension, and no notice of charge against the House.
"The former president's recent statement was uncalled for and does not reflect the true essence and dedication of the House and its members," Almario said of his fellow Mindanaoan, Duterte.
"We, as elected representatives, have always put the interests of the Filipino people above all else. We remain committed to our duty and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for all," the solon said.
He further said: "Our records, which are open to public scrutiny, are a testament to our dedication to fiscal responsibility and transparency."
"Speaker Romualdez has shown time and again his dedication to the Filipino people. His leadership has been instrumental in passing crucial legislation that has positively impacted the lives of millions. It is under his guidance that the House has remained steadfast in its commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure that every peso of the people's money is accounted for and spent wisely," he said.
"Let us rise above personal and political divides and continue to prioritize the welfare of our nation and its people," Almario added.