House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has vowed to continue giving barangay officials "the dignity and support they deserve" given the tough tasks that they do.

According to Romualdez, the House of Representatives, which he leads, remains committed to strengthen their capacity to serve as well as promote their welfare.

He gave the assurance in his message of support Wednesday afternoon, March 19 before members of the Liga ng mga Barangay ng Pilipinas-Tacloban Chapter. The Liga members are undergoing a four-day comprehensive training at the Citystate Tower Hotel in Ermita, Manila.

“The House of Representatives, under my leadership, is committed to giving barangay officials the dignity and support you deserve. Hindi namin kayo pababayaan, dahil hindi niyo rin kami iniwan (We will not neglect you, because you also didnt leave us),” said the Leyte 1st district representative. 

“We will continue pushing for laws that recognize your sacrifices, secure your future, and strengthen your capacity to lead,” he added.

Romualdez hailed barangay officials as the backbone of the nation’s governance.

“In every crisis, in every challenge, in every moment of need, you are the first to respond. Kayo ang unang tinatakbuhan ng tao, kayo rin ang unang sumasalo sa problema (You are the first line of help, you are the first problem-solvers). That is why ensuring your strength, security, and stability is not just a commitment—it is a duty.”

The Speaker recognized the demanding task of barangay officials. He noted that they have to face disaster response, law enforcement, financial management, and social welfare issues whenever needed.

“That is why we in Congress continue to fight for measures that uplift barangay officials, ensuring that you are given the resources, recognition, and respect you deserve,” he said, as he added that rendering service without proper support was an injustice. 

Meanwhile, Romualdez also commended the Liga ng mga Barangay Tacloban Chapter for organizing the training program. 

“This four-day training program is not just about learning—it is about preparing, strengthening, and securing the future of our communities. Ang barangay na handa, bayan ang panalo (The nation wins if the barangay is well-prepared),” he said. 

He noted that their training for disaster preparedness, responsible budgeting, and proper governance are not just technical skills but the lifelines that keep communities safe and thriving.

“Let us continue working together for a Bagong Pilipinas—where every barangay is strong, every leader is supported, and every community is thriving,” Romualdez said.