MANILA — Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez said he will not support the reelection of Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez as Speaker of the House, citing the need for a leader who will “stand firmly behind President Bongbong Marcos” and unite the country behind the administration’s goals.

“I will not vote for Martin Romualdez as Speaker of the House. I believe our Chamber needs a leader who will stand firmly behind President Bongbong Marcos—not pull him down—and can help unite the nation behind his vision for the country,” Benitez said in a statement.

Benitez also distanced himself from all political blocs in the House, saying he would serve as an independent member while continuing to support Marcos’ leadership.

“I have also decided not to align myself with the Majority, the Minority, or the opposition. I will serve as an independent member of the House—fully supportive of the President and committed to encouraging broader support for his leadership,” he said.

Without naming names, Benitez criticized the current leadership for controversies hounding the chamber, including “questionable budget allocations, politicized relief, and selfish power plays.”

“Congress has been plagued by controversies… Our constituents and even our colleagues now question the integrity, transparency, and sincerity of the House,” he said.

Benitez said his focus moving forward will be on supporting reforms that improve public services, restore trust in government, and ensure the Marcos administration succeeds in delivering on its promises.

“This is not the time for self-interest or political maneuvering. I will support reforms that uplift the lives of our people, restore public trust through transparency, and help bring lasting, meaningful change,” he said.