Despite Speaker Martin Romualdez’s assurances and that highly public display of “political affection” between him, former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Congressman Gonzales of the second district of Pampanga who replaced Macapagal-Arroyo as senior deputy speaker, it seems like there is still something going on in the House. Sources told Currentph.com that many legislators feel “unloved” by the Speaker. And the problem is with the allocation of infra projects.
Several Congressmen said that a particular Congressman cum contractor close to the Speaker is amassing most if not all of the infra projects in the House, leaving several others close to legislators outside of the Kolambo empty-handed. With the campaign for the mid-term elections only several months away, many legislators, especially those running for national posts, need those funds to win. Unfortunately for them, this Congressman cum contractor is reported as kuripot as those in power that many blame the Speaker for their predicament.
Who is this congressman cum contractor? This person is beloved for being a perfect and gracious host. His resort down South is one of the most frequented by moneyed Filipinos. He’s good friends with another Congressman who Macapagal-Arroyo considers her protege.
Will Romualdez lose his power before his cousin’s State of the Nation address? Several whispers of yes. Question–who is being groomed as his successor? Your guess is as good as mine.
