House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Facebook)

He may be the fourth highest-ranked official of the land, but House Speaker Martin Romualdez still gets "jealous" of other public servants sometimes.

Romualdez made this admission on Monday, May 29 in front of nearly 100 visiting Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) members  at the House of Representatives.

“Every time I face men in uniform I have this tinge of jealousy that emanates from admiration for our men and women in uniform. Not only do you look great but you do so many great deeds for our country," Romualdez said.

“And that is why I’m so happy to share with you these moments, thankful, grateful for all that you do. These promotions to your positions are most deserved and the least that we can do for you, for you do so much for all of us,” added the Leyte 1st district congressman.

(Speaker’s office)

The AFP members who made a courtesy call to House leaders were composed of generals and senior officers whose respective promotions are up for confirmation by the Commission on Appointments (CA) on Wednesday, May 31.

Wednesday is the final session date of the first regular session.

“You are the standard that we try to emulate. And that is why we always look up to you and that your visit here to the House brings so much honor. You can only begin to imagine how much we truly appreciate your service,” Romualdez further said, refering to his esteemed visitors.

“Sa dami niyong ginawa, sa sakripisyo niyo, karangalan ko to na ibinibigay ninyo sa akin to honor you and to welcome you here (For all that you do, for all your sacrifices, it's my honor to welcome you here),” he added.