Atayde named Assistant Majority Leader

Quezon City First District Representative Juan Carlos Atayde has been appointed Assistant Majority Leader in the House of Representatives, a role he believes will allow him to further support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s priority initiatives, including accountability for failed flood control projects.

“I am grateful for the trust of the House leadership and honored to serve as Assistant Majority Leader,” the second-term lawmaker said. “This position gives me the opportunity to help advance key measures aligned with the President’s development agenda, especially on issues that directly impact our constituents in Quezon City — like flooding in Metro Manila.”

Atayde reiterated that with heavier rains and more frequent typhoons affecting the country, a holistic approach to flood management in Metro Manila is crucial.

“I repeat; flooding is not a QC District 1 problem. It is not just a Quezon City problem. It is a Metro Manila problem. And we cannot solve it piecemeal,” he stressed.

Atayde previously filed House Resolution 00081, which calls on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Metro Manila LGUs to jointly formulate and implement a comprehensive region-wide flood management master plan. He noted that Metro Manila contributes over 30 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, and the economic costs of recurring floods extend beyond the capital.

As Assistant Majority Leader, Atayde also expressed support for congressional oversight and accountability in flood control programs. He emphasized the need to assess current projects, identify gaps, and ensure public funds are spent wisely and effectively.

"The President has made it clear: we must hold those in charge of flood projects accountable," Atayde said. "We owe that to our people. We can’t just keep pouring money into the same projects and expect different results."

Atayde said he looks forward to working closely with the House Committees on Metro Manila Development, Public Works and Highways, and Climate Change to push for consultations and hearings on the issue.