3 Dutertes, Ungab, Benitez opt to be independent House members

The kin and allies of former President Rodrigo Duterte were among the five lawmakers who opted to be independent or chose not to be affiliated with either the majority or minority bloc at the House of Representatives . 

Davao City First District Rep. Paolo Duterte, the former president's son, said Monday he did not vote for Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez as Speaker and will not join the minority bloc too because he does not want to "to take part in a political circus" in Congress.

"I walked out after the roll call with my fellow Davao legislators because I represent the people of Davao City, not the political puppeteers nor the self-serving actors parading as public servants in Congress," the lawmaker said. 

"I will not lend my name nor my vote to any side that treats leadership as a prize, not a responsibility. What we are seeing is not governance — it is a game of thrones being played at the expense of the people," he added.

He further said the public deserves better than betrayal and manufactured allegiances. 

"I did not run for Congress to play along. I ran to represent the interests of my constituents — with honor, conviction, and the courage to walk away from what is wrong," he added. 

Joining Duterte were his son Davao City Second District Rep. Omar Duterte, his cousin Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandaragat (PPP) Party-list Rep. Harold Duterte, and ally Davao City Third District Rep. Isidro Ungab.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, Bacolod City Rep. Albee Benitez said he also did not vote for Romualdez as Speaker because of budget controversies during Romualdez's tenure. 

"I will not vote for Martin Romualdez as Speaker of the House. I believe our Chamber needs a leader who will stand firmly behind President Bongbong Marcos-not pull him down-and can help unite the nation behind his vision for the country. I have also decided not to align myself with the Majority and the Minority," Benitez said.

"Congress has been plagued by controversies involving questionable budget allocations, politicized relief, and selfish power plays-all of which have contributed to distrust, disunity, and dysfunction. Our constituents and even our colleagues now question the integrity, transparency, and sincerity of the House," he added. 

Benitez, however, said he remains fully supportive of the President and is committed to encouraging broader support for his leadership.

"This is not the time for self-interest or political maneuvering. I will support reforms that uplift the lives of our people, restore public trust through transparency, and help bring lasting, meaningful change. As we enter the crucial second half of this administration, I am ready to do the hard work that our people rightfully expect and deserve," Benitez said. —AOL, GMA Integrated News