Speaker’s office denies ‘stroke’ yarn

The office of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has firmly rejected rumors circulating online that he suffered a stroke and is currently hospitalized.

“These allegations are completely false and intended to mislead the public,” said lawyer Lemuel Erwin Romero, the Speaker’s Head Executive Assistant, in a statement released on Saturday.

Romero emphasized that Speaker Romualdez is in excellent health and continues to fulfill his duties with commitment and focus.

The Speaker’s office also pointed to his recent public engagements as proof of his active participation in official duties.

On Friday, 6 December, Romualdez attended several key events, including the signing ceremony of two major laws by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang. These included the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (Republic Act 12076) and the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act (RA 12077).

The signing ceremony was attended by House leaders, senators, and other officials, and was widely covered by the media, showcasing Romualdez’s continued involvement in legislative activities.

The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act aims to create a network of permanent, storm-resilient evacuation centers across the country, designed to withstand typhoon winds of up to 300 kilometers per hour and seismic activity of up to magnitude 8.

Meanwhile, the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act allows students in disaster-stricken areas to defer loan payments without penalties or interest during emergencies.

Later that evening, Romualdez attended the “Pagdiriwang ’24” yearend celebration and thanksgiving event of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, where he met with President Marcos, governors, and senators. During the event, Romualdez emphasized the importance of collaboration with local government leaders.

Romero urged the public to trust only verified information from official sources and to disregard rumors that could undermine confidence in the government and its institutions.

“Let us reject disinformation that aims to sow confusion and distrust,” Romero added.