• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Visayan Bloc has expressed its full support for Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III and the leadership he has shown in guiding the House of Representatives, especially in the crafting of the national budget.
Led by its convenor, Bacolod Lone District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, the Visayas Bloc is composed of about 50 solons across the region.
The statement of support of Visayas bloc to Dy comes after Deputy Speaker Ronaldo “Ronnie” Puno, who is the National Unity Party chairman, hinted at the possibility of moving to the minority, citing the “lack of leadership” from Dy, noting that many congressmen feel abandoned due to budget woes.
In a statement, Benitez said the General Appropriations Act is the product of months of deliberation and consultation. He added that under the Speaker’s leadership, the House has pursued groundbreaking reforms that have ensured that it was passed in a manner that was transparent, fair, and responsive to the needs of the Filipino people.
Puno claimed that infrastructure and social protection funds for several districts have not been released, while claiming funds were directed to other districts.
Benitez, however, said that Speaker Dy has consistently encouraged members to raise concerns through dialogue within the institution, and “we share his belief that we are stronger as a chamber when we address issues constructively, while remaining focused on our mandate to serve our people, aside from prioritizing reforms intended to restore the public’s trust in the House.”
Puno disclosed earlier that the 41-member party is expected to discuss this potential shift during the Lenten break.
The NUP is the second biggest political party in the 300-plus strong House of Representatives, next to the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD).
Among the NUP members in Negros Occidental are Rep. Alfredo Marañon III (2nd district, Negros Occ.) and Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer (4th district, Negros Occ.).
Speaker Dy assured members that his door is open to dialogue, emphasizing that the strength of the institution relies on open communication and resolving concerns constructively.*
