Former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (File photo)

MANILA – Despite her recent removal as deputy speaker, former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Wednesday she would continue to support House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez.

In a statement, Arroyo said she has always supported Romualdez’s leadership as speaker from the time that she learned that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. preferred him for the position.

“I took the position that I will support him as Speaker. I had advised the President of this in writing,” she said. “But even as ordinary Congress(wo)man, I will remain true to my word to President Marcos Jr. – I will continue to support his preferred man for House Speaker, and that is Speaker Martin Romualdez.”

House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe earlier said Arroyo was removed as deputy speaker for not signing a “pivotal House resolution” that upholds the integrity and honor of the House and expresses support and solidarity for Romualdez’s leadership.

Arroyo, however, explained that she was unable to sign House Resolution 1414 because she was abroad.

“In any case, that resolution does not contain anything new for me, because I have always supported his leadership as Speaker,” she added.

Arroyo also noted that she has never taken or supported any ouster moves against Romualdez.

“In fact, I have publicly stated that I have given up any plans to aspire for the Speakership again, in this and any future Congress that I would have the honor to be a part of,” she said.

“There is always intrigue in politics, often petty. If some intriguers were able to convince Speaker Romualdez of the falsehood that I do not support his leadership in the House, then there is nothing I can do.”

Arroyo said it is time to move on to more pressing national concerns.

The House elected Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio Albano to replace Arroyo as deputy speaker.

Also removed as deputy speaker was Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab. He was replaced by Lanao del Sur 2nd District Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong.

Ungab said he accepts the decision of the House leadership to remove him from his post.

“I have been in Congress long enough to understand the dynamics and interpersonal relations among its members. I would like to thank all those who were instrumental in making my tenure as deputy speaker meaningful, memorable, and worthwhile,” he said.

Ungab said despite his removal, he would remain supportive of the current administration and its programs “in the belief that it can bring a better hope and future for the Filipino people.”

“I accept my fate without any rancor nor bitterness. I leave the deputy speakership’s position assured that I have performed my duties well, with the best intentions and great love for my country,” he said. (PNA)