January 15, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Marikina City 2nd District Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo will be taking over the post of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co as chairman of the House of Representatives’ appropriations committee, but only in an acting capacity, House secretary general Reginald Velasco said yesterday.
For purposes of clarity, Velasco cited Rule 9 of the House governing committees, of which Section 32 provides rules on “vacancy and succession” with regard to the 19th Congress (July 2022 to June 2025).
“The designation of Quimbo as the acting leader of the House committee on appropriations is in compliance with the rules,” he stressed, noting the lawmaker-economist sits as the panel’s “senior vice chairperson,” which fits and qualifies her under the House rules.
As per House rules, in cases of “vacancy, death, resignation, permanent disability or removal” of the panel chairman, such post shall be “filled by the member next in succession in the committee list,” which is Quimbo, a second-term legislator.
“(Quimbo) is serving as the officer-in-charge of the committee and will perform the functions of the chairperson in an acting capacity until the House designates a permanent chairperson in accordance with the applicable rules,” Velasco said in a statement.
Quimbo’s designation ensures the uninterrupted operations of the appropriations committee in fulfilling its crucial legislative duties, especially during this period of transition, according to the House secretary general.
Senior House Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, President Marcos’ son, on Monday moved to declare Co’s post “vacant,” just as Congress resumed session after a month-long Christmas break.
Lawmakers made no objections during the plenary deliberations, when the younger Marcos, who represents Ilocos Norte’s first district, made the declaration.
For his part, Co extended his “heartfelt gratitude” to his House colleagues for “graciously accepting my decision to step down.”
“This decision, made with a heavy heart, is driven by pressing health concerns. The highly demanding nature of my role has taken its toll, and I now need to prioritize seeking the medical attention necessary for my well-being,” the Bicolano legislator said.
“I have always served at the pleasure of the majority. I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with the immense responsibility of steering the nation’s budget in the service of the House of the people and the constituents we represent,” he added.
Co took pride in the panel’s accomplishments in the past three years, particularly the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program, which provides critical support to those with insufficient income for their family needs.
“As the proud sponsor and shepherd of the budgets for 2023, 2024 and 2025, I ensured alignment with the President’s eight-point economic agenda. Notably, securing funding for legacy initiatives in health, housing and food security, particularly legacy hospitals and contract farming, will remain highlights of my service,” Co said.
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