The National Unity Party, represented by Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno, intends to exit the majority bloc in the House of Representatives due to dissatisfaction with Speaker Faustino Dy's leadership, particularly over stalled infrastructure funding.
Antipolo City Representative and Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno revealed that the National Unity Party (NUP) plans to leave the majority bloc in the Philippine House of Representatives and move to the minority due to disappointment with Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III’s handling of key funding issues. Puno noted that infrastructure and social protection funds allocated in the national budget are marked as “for later release,” causing delays in public works projects across regions and districts.
According to Puno, Speaker Dy has yet to enact a plan to release these funds, halting bidding processes and subsequent project implementation. He described the situation as improper and a repudiation of budget laws. While Puno respects Dy and the Dy family, he criticized the lack of action and communication regarding these delays. Puno emphasized willingness to discuss solutions but indicated readiness to move to the minority bloc if no progress is made.
Additionally, Puno denied claims that their party is sheltering Vice President Sara Duterte and her family amid impeachment complaints. He highlighted that NUP members participated visibly in investigations related to Duterte’s budget use and stated the party would evaluate impeachment evidence objectively, supporting any complaint only if supported by strong evidence.
Efforts are underway to obtain Speaker Dy’s response to these remarks, who also chairs the NUP. Meanwhile, the House Justice Committee is reviewing two impeachment complaints against Vice President Duterte deemed sufficient in form and substance.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/balita/980202/nup-planong-layasan-ang-majority-bloc-ni-speaker-dy-ayon-kay-puno/story/