Hugpong ng Pagbabago endorses Ungab as House Speaker

Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) has endorsed Davao Third District Representative Isidro Ungab for House Speaker.

In a statement issued early Wednesday morning, HNP explains that "with its three incumbent Congressmen from Davao Region, has been patiently observing the developments in the House of Representatives."

"We understand if President Duterte, because of delicadeza, will not accept the intent of our brother from Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod, Congressman Paolo Duterte, to resolve the conflict among candidates," the group added.

Ungab is a four term congressman and the only lawmaker to hold the chairmanships of both Ways and Means and Appropriations Committees.

The political party formed by President Duterte's daughter and Congressman Paolo Duterte's sister Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has other suggestions.

"We suggest that Cong. Alan Peter Cayetano take the Majority Leader position, Cong. Lord Alan Velasco to take the Appropriations Committee, and Cong. Martin Romualdez to head the Accounts Committee," the gorup said.

"We earnestly hope that everyone can see the light in this option and move forward with urgency in serving our country."

The statement was issued after Paolo Duterte announced on Tuesday that he is considering joining the speakership race.

“The house is divided, I might be able to help unite it. Pareho lang kaming binoto ng mga tao ah. Kung term sharing, term sharing na kaming lahat,” he said.

However, in relation to Paolo's statement, a previous declaration made by his father comes to light.

President Duterte, in May this year, had threatened to resign if his son decides to join the speakership race.

“Itong si Paolo, sabihin ko sa kanya, if you run for speakership, let me know. Kasi kung tatakbo ka, magre-resign ako,” Duterte said in a speech during the oathtaking of newly appointed government officials in Malacañang. — BAP, GMA News