MANILA – Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has stepped down as Speaker of the House of Representatives, saying the move was necessary to protect public trust and allow the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to carry out its investigation without influence from top leaders.

“Wala akong kasalanan at wala akong itinatago. Ang tanging layunin ko ay maglingkod at magpabuti ng buhay ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Yet I also know that when questions arise, it is the people’s trust that must always come first,” Romualdez said in a statement on Wednesday.

The outgoing Speaker stressed that his decision should not be seen as an admission of wrongdoing but as an act of conscience. “Masakit man sa akin, I am stepping aside so that the independent investigation may proceed freely—without pressure, without influence, and without fear. This is not surrender, but conscience,” he added.

Romualdez said he will continue serving as a lawmaker representing Leyte. “This is not farewell, but a reaffirmation of service. I will continue to serve as Representative of Leyte, and as a servant of the Filipino people,” he said.

Following his resignation, Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III was elected as the new Speaker with 253 votes, 28 abstentions, and no opposition.

In his first speech as Speaker, Dy vowed to pursue reforms that would restore credibility in Congress. “Under my leadership, this House will change. I will not defend the guilty. I will not shield the corrupt. Gaya ng paninindigan ng ating Pangulo – no rank, no ally, no office will be spared from accountability,” he said.

He also underscored the need to strengthen oversight functions, cooperate with the ICI, and align the national budget with the needs of Filipinos. “We must strengthen the Oversight Committee and fully cooperate with the Independent Commission of Infrastructure. Our duty is not to protect each other – our duty is to protect the Filipino people,” Dy said.

Romualdez’s decision came as scrutiny over flood control projects intensified in recent weeks, with mounting calls for transparency. House members across party lines acknowledged his legislative accomplishments and described his resignation as a move to safeguard public trust.