IN GOOD HEALTH. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, surrounded by various governors, was captured in a photograph during the ‘Pagdiriwang ’24’ year-end celebration and thanksgiving hosted by the League of Provinces of the Philippines at Imelda Hall, San Miguel, Manila on the evening of December 6, 2024. The following day, his office firmly stated that Romualdez remains in excellent health and is actively engaged in his responsibilities. (Photo courtesy of Speaker’s office)
MANILA – On Saturday, the office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez refuted online rumors suggesting he had suffered a stroke and was hospitalized. These rumors were labeled as ‘malicious’ and intended to deceive the public.
Lemuel Erwin Romero, the head executive assistant of the Speaker’s office, declared in a statement, ‘These claims are entirely false and are crafted to mislead the public and create confusion.’
He emphasized that Romualdez is in top health and continues to serve with unwavering dedication.
Romero highlighted Romualdez’s participation in several official events on December 6, showcasing his commitment to public service.
On the morning of December 6, Romualdez was present at Malacañang, Manila, for the signing of two significant bills by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.: the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (Republic Act 12076) and the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act (RA 12077). These events were attended by other House leaders and senators and received extensive media coverage, highlighting Romualdez’s active role in legislative progress.
The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act is designed to create a national network of permanent, storm-resistant evacuation centers capable of withstanding typhoon winds up to 300 kph and seismic activity up to magnitude 8.
The Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act aims to offer financial relief to students in disaster-affected areas by allowing them to defer their loan payments for higher education and technical-vocational training programs during and after emergencies, without incurring penalties or interest.
Later that day, Romualdez joined President Marcos, governors, and senators at the League of Provinces of the Philippines’ year-end celebration and thanksgiving at Imelda Hall, where he strengthened ties with local government leaders.
Romero urged the public to trust only verified and official sources of information and to dismiss disinformation that aims to erode confidence in leaders and institutions. (PNA)