HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez appealed to the public to redirect their attention to the significant milestone achieved by the country about the introduction of the Filipino language course at Harvard University.

Responding to reports about his alleged $2 million donation, Romualdez said he would rather not talk about it in respect to the institution’s gift policy.

Earlier reports said that the House leader has committed $2 million (P113.4 millon) to fund the Filipino language instructor’s post in Harvard University.

In a statement Romualdez said “I choose to respect the institution’s gift policy.”

“Harvard has already communicated that they do not discuss the terms or specifics of individual gifts, and I stand by that principle,” the House leader added.

Meanwhile, Romualdez asked critics to instead report on the remarkable acknowledgment of the Filipino culture and heritage on a global platform.

“As mentioned by Mr. Jose Marco C. “Marcky” Antonio II ’25, co-president of the Harvard Undergraduate Philippine Forum, our focus should be on celebrating this achievement,” he said.

“I firmly believe in promoting and preserving our Filipino identity, and this step by Harvard is a testament to that effort,” he also said.

He then appealed to Filipinos to embrace this moment of pride and unity for the country and for the language.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jester P. Manalastas