House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), Senator Imee Marcos (Speaker's office, Facebook)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez took the high road in his response to the perceived jabs against him Tuesday, Jan. 30 during the Senate's inquiry on the People’s Initiative (PI) campaign. 

The Senate investigation was presided by Romualdez's own older cousin, Senator Imee Marcos. 

The proceedings of the inquiry heavily implied that Romualdez had direct involvement in the signature campaign for the PI. The PI is one of the modes for Charter change (Cha-cha). 

One particular line from Senator Marcos' opening statement during the Senate hearing stood out for the House Speaker; thus he felt the need to address it in a statement. 

"The phrase 'Walang gamot sa kakapalan ng mukha mo' (There is no cure for your shamelessness), as expressed by Senator Marcos, reflects a passionate stance on issues we both care deeply about," Romualdez said. 

"As public servants, our primary focus should always be on the welfare of our constituents and the progress of our nation. It is in this light that I choose to interpret her words as a call to engage more deeply in our shared commitment to serve the Filipino people," he said. 

"Ang pakiusap ko lang kay Senator Imee. Hindi po kailangan ng bastusan. Pinakikinggan tayo ng mga kabataan at hindi magandang ehemplo ang ganito," added the Leyte 1st district congressman. 

(My appeal to Senator Imee is this: There is no need for disrespectful. The youth are listening to us and this is not a good example.) 

Highlighted during the Senate hearing were videos and photos of Romualdez wherein he allegedly espoused the PI movement. The PI is supposed to be a purely civilian undertaking. 

Romualdez, arguably President Marcos' top ally in the legislature, has repeatedly denied any hand in the PI and it's accompanying signature drive. 

Despite the Senate proceedings, Romualdez extended a hand of cooperation toward the lady senator. 

"In the spirit of unity and cooperation, I am open to engaging in meaningful discussions with Senator Marcos to address any concerns and work together for the betterment of our country. It is through open communication and collaboration that we can best serve the interests of our people. 

"Tapusin na po natin ang bangayan. Mag-trabaho na lamang po tayo. Para na rin sa kapakanan ng mga kapwa natin Pilipino," he said. 

(Let's put an end to this bickering. Let's just work, for the sake of our fellow Filipinos) 

Romualdez supports the lifting of the restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution as a way to attract more foreign direct investments (FDIs) to the country. He has said that the Philippine economy has been lagging behind in the region due to its restrictive policies.