House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez is taking his role as caretaker of Palawan's third congressional district very seriously. 

This was apparent during his recent visit to the province wherein he vowed to assist in the continued development of Palawan. 

“In my capacity as your legislative district caretaker and as Speaker of the House, I pledge to marshal all necessary resources to support our key development priorities,” Romualdez said in his message during a meeting Friday, March 1 with local officials of the province and officers of various government agencies. 

“This commitment extends beyond mere words; it is a promise already set into motion. The support from Congress for Puerto Princesa and Palawan will remain steadfast and unyielding,” added Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives. 

The House designated Speaker as caretaker of the district in November last year following the passing of its representative, former Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn. 

Romualdez represents Leyte's 1st district in the 19th Congress. 

According to him, Palawan’s third district is poised for transformative growth and development, as he cited its strategic importance and the incomparable value the province offers as a global tourist destination. 

He said there are programs and projects for the district aimed at enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and technology in the region, which are part of broader efforts to improve the quality of life, economic development, and environmental sustainability in Palawan. 

Inspired by the legacy of the visionary leadership of the late Congressman Hagedorn, Romualdez said these projects are part of a comprehensive plan to foster development, improve public services, and enhance the overall well-being of the residents. 

“Today, I stand before you, committed to honoring and continuing this legacy, striving to bring about a better Puerto Princesa and a better Palawan for all Palaweños,” Romualdez said. 

Romualdez noted that while his duties as Speaker of the House may limit his physical presence in Palawan, his commitment to the third district remains absolute. 

“Through the establishment of the District Caretaker Office, we ensure continuous service delivery to our constituents. In my absence, Karl Legazpi, a dedicated and promising Palaweño, will serve as your direct link to me, ensuring that your needs and concerns are addressed with the urgency and importance they deserve,” he said. 

He noted that during his initial visit to Pag-asa Island last October, he gave assurance that the House would allocate at least P3 billion for critical infrastructure projects, including the airport expansion, naval port, and fishing sanctuary, alongside facilities to bolster tourism. 

“Such initiatives not only enhance our strategic capabilities but also promise to spotlight the pristine beauty of Pag-asa Island, echoing the success of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park,” Romualdez said. 

He underscored the need to capitalize on Palawan’s tourism potential while steadfastly committed to the conservation and management of its natural assets, noting the province has garnered global acclaim---by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast, and TripAdvisor-- as a top tourist destination, reflecting its unparalleled natural beauty and biodiversity. 

Likewise, he reiterated his commitment to support President Marcos' initiatives to protect the country’s sovereignty and interest, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).