In a recent development at the House of Representatives, Marikina City Representative Stella Quimbo has been appointed as the acting chair of the Committee on Appropriations. This follows the resignation of Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy Co, who cited health issues as the reason for stepping down. House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed the appointment, stating it aligns with the House rules of the 19th Congress regarding committee leadership transitions.
Velasco explained that under the rules, in the event of a vacancy due to resignation, death, permanent disability, or removal, the position is filled by the highest-ranking vice chair or the next member on the committee list. Quimbo, who was a senior vice-chair, will serve in this capacity until a permanent chair is appointed.
Quimbo emphasized her commitment to maintaining the committee’s operations smoothly. In an interview, she stated, “The functions of our committee on appropriations will continue as usual. I have been instructed by the leadership to ensure that our committee continues to function effectively.”
The Committee on Appropriations is crucial for the formulation and scrutiny of the national budget, conducting hearings on departmental and agency budgets. The vacancy was officially declared during a plenary session by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, following a motion by Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Alexander Marcos.
Co, in his resignation statement, acknowledged the demanding nature of his role and the need to focus on his health. He reflected on his tenure, highlighting his contributions to health, housing, and food security, and his efforts to align the national budgets for 2023, 2024, and 2025 with the administration’s economic goals.