THREE more lawmakers from Mindanao and Visayas on Wednesday said the six percentage points increase in the trust and performance ratings of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez from the latest 3rd quarter Octa Research survey is a vote of confidence for the excellent job of the House of Representatives in championing people’s interests.

Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, Sarangani Lone District Rep. Steve Chiongbian Solon, and Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo City Lone District Rep. Julienne “Jam” Baronda lauded Speaker Romualdez for a job well done in championing the interests of the Filipino people.

“It serves as a resounding vote of confidence and an unequivocal seal of approval, both for the dynamic leadership of Speaker Romualdez and for the institution that is the House of the People,” Adiong said. “This remarkable development is a testament to the discerning judgment of the Filipino populace who have not only acknowledged but celebrated the unwavering dedication and tireless commitment displayed by Speaker Romualdez in steering the House of Representatives.”

“As we embrace this resounding endorsement, we are motivated to reiterate our unwavering commitment to the continued progress and welfare of the Filipino nation. We pledge to persistently and fervently redouble our efforts in the realm of legislation, with the singular aim of crafting laws that will foster prosperity and well-being for the Filipino people. Together, we will chart a path toward a brighter future for our nation, working tirelessly for the greater good,” Adiong said.

Solon said “it comes as no surprise to us at the House of Representatives that the OCTA’s survey shows a favorable result for Speaker Martin’s performance in the last [quarter].”

“Throughout the year, he has championed cornerstone bills in economic reforms, education, and public health. He has consistently demonstrated his ability and dedication for driving positive change through effective legislation,” Solon said.

“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Speaker Martin during my tenure and he is an intelligent, professional and decisive lawmaker – qualities that make him an adept leader at the helm,” Solon said. “With OCTA’s affirmation and recognition of Speaker Martin’s hard work, we at the House of Representatives are even more driven to serve the Filipino people with the same level of dedication and passion that he has shown.”

For her part, Baronda extended her congratulatory message to Speaker Romualdez for his exemplary leadership which has been showing compassion for the poor and the marginalized sectors by helping government bring down the prices of basic commodities.

She also noticed Romualdez’s dedication to his job as leader of the House.

“Speaker Romualdez’s work ethic, dedication and passion to serve, and collaborative efforts to help the executive branch led by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. makes us want to do and give our best, too, for our country and people. Indeed, this is the best time to be a Member of the House of Representatives,” Baronda said.

“I wish to extend my felicitations to Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez for his commendable leadership of the House of Representatives, which was greatly appreciated by the Filipino people, who gave him a 61% satisfaction rating and a 60% trust rating in the newest Octa Research survey,” Baronda said.

“The 6% increase from the previous 55% satisfaction and 54% trust ratings prove that the Filipino people’s legislature is on the right track in coming up with people-centered, proactive, and responsive legislative measures and initiatives. This feat of our Speaker inspires us to do more and be way better as legislators, and challenges us to be stronger voices of our respective constituencies,” Baronda said.

During the survey conducted between September 30 and October 4, Speaker Romualdez’s trust ratings saw a remarkable increase, rising from 38% to 60% between 2022 and 2023, with a 22-point increase in the same period. Additionally, from July to October 2023, his trust ratings went from 54% to 60%, marking a 6-point rise in the quarter.

In the same survey, the Speaker’s performance satisfaction rating experienced significant growth, climbing from 44% to 61% between 2020-2022 and 2023, and from 55% to 61% from July to October 2023, reflecting a substantial 17-point increase in the same period and a 6-point gain in the quarter.