Romualdez shares trivia about Sandro during launch of House internship program
At A Glance
- Speaker Martin Romualdez led House of Representatives officials Tuesday, Aug. 15 in welcoming college interns who were part of the Strategic Mentoring and Research Training (SMART) internship program.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos (Speaker’s office, Facebook)
Speaker Martin Romualdez led House of Representatives officials Tuesday, Aug. 15 in welcoming college interns who were part of the Strategic Mentoring and Research Training (SMART) internship program.
Romualdez leader of the 312-strong chamber, served as the guest speaker during the launch of the internship program held at the Women Legislators’ Lounge,
“Our dear SMART interns, you are not just entering an institution; you're stepping into the heart of our democracy. This is not merely an observational exercise but an avenue to understand the intricate machinery that drives our legislative body,” he told the wide-eyed students.
At the launch were 32 college interns from University of the Philippines (UP), Lyceum of the Philippines, Trinity College, and University of Santo Tomas (UST).
Romualdez described the SMART internship program as a "visionary project that aims to groom the next generation of leaders".
He made sure to mention that presidential son, Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos was himself a former intern in the House during the previous 18th Congress.
Romualdez was the majority leader during the time that he began mentoring Marcos, his nephew.
Marcos, the senior deputy majority leader, was among those who attended Tuesday's event.
The participants in the internship program will be assigned to do immersion work within the secretariat of the lower chamber.
“The Secretariat is the backbone of the House of the People. It ensures that the processes of drafting, deliberating, and passing legislation happen seamlessly. The value of the Secretariat in legislation is immense. Their work ensures that the voices of millions are effectively translated into policies and laws,” Romualdez explained.
He said that the program is the chamber’s way of ensuring that the torch of leadership and service in the House of Representatives “is passed on to capable hands".
“To all the interns: you've been chosen because of your potential and the promise you show. Here, you'll be part of a mission, a bigger picture, where we're linking the passion of our youth with the experience and wisdom of the House of the People,” Romuldez said.