Marcos to Romualdez: Keep working ties strong, vibrant

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. told Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez to maintain a vibrant working relationship as he greeted the latter for his birthday.

In a video message shown during Monday's plenary session at the House of Representatives, Marcos expressed gratitude to Romualdez for his leadership in the chamber. 

"Well, what can I say. Happy birthday to our Speaker, Speaker Martin Romualdez. There have been, I’m sure very many greetings, so I will just add my own," Marcos said. 

"We, of course, thank you for all the good work that you have done in leading the House of Representatives and the very important part that the House of Representatives, under your leadership, has played in our effort of nation building. And let’s hope to keep that working relationship strong and vibrant, and I look forward to the years to come where we can do even more good work together," he added. 

Romualdez, who will turn 60 on November 14, is a cousin of the President. 

He earlier vowed to fight those who would malign the lower chamber of Congress.

Marcos further looked forward to having a fine celebration with Romualdez. 

"But on a more personal note, I’m sure that we will have a fine celebration on your birthday and I am certain that once more, you will continue to provide all of the goodies and treats that are making it difficult for us to keep our weight. But that is not a complaint, that is a reminder that they’re much appreciated," he said. 

"In any case it’s our turn to provide you with treats on your birthday," he added.—AOL, GMA Integrated News