04 Aug 2025

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House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has called on legislators to go beyond technical lawmaking and focus on enacting laws that genuinely improve the well-being of Filipinos. In a statement, Romualdez emphasized the need for legislation that resonates with the struggles of everyday citizens.

"Let the 20th Congress be a turning point, not just in laws we pass but in the lives that we change," Romualdez said during a recent session. He added that laws must carry sincerity and real meaning, stressing, "Hindi sapat ang mga batas na mahusay, kailangan nito ay may puso. Hindi sapat ang batas na maganda sa papel, dapat ito ay may saysay sa buhay."

Romualdez underscored that empathy and relevance should guide all legislative deliberations, particularly in light of ongoing challenges faced by many Filipinos. "Let us make every debate meaningful, let every law reflect compassion, let every session honor the dreams of our people," he stated. He also reminded House members of their responsibility, declaring, "We are the House of the People. Let us be remembered for being worthy of that name."

Among the priorities outlined by Romualdez are the passage of the proposed Rice Industry Consumer Empowerment Act (RICE Act), institutionalizing the "Walang Gutom Program" to provide monthly food credits, supporting digital skills training and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and advancing reforms in public education. Key educational measures include the Last Mile Schools Act and amendments to the Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE).

Through this approach, Romualdez envisions a legislative agenda that not only addresses policy but also directly improves the day-to-day lives of Filipinos facing economic and social challenges.