ILONGGOS IN POWER: Iloilo lawmakers secure key House leadership posts

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Four lawmakers from Iloilo have secured key leadership positions in the House of Representatives under the 20th Congress, potentially boosting the province’s influence, access to resources and legislative support at the national level.

Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron and 1st District Rep. Janette Garin were both elected as deputy speakers as Congress convened on Monday, July 28.

They took their oaths during the first regular session of the House on Tuesday, July 29.

“I carry with me the hopes of those I serve and the responsibility to lead with courage, compassion and vision,” Biron said.

“The journey ahead is new to me, but I am ready.”

Garin expressed gratitude for the trust given to her.

“I am humbled and honored to be entrusted with the role of deputy speaker,” she said.

“I remain committed to pushing for legislation that builds a better future for every Filipino family.”

Deputy speakers are the second-highest-ranking officials in the House.

They support and, when needed, act on behalf of reelected House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Their duties include presiding over sessions in the speaker’s absence, helping advance legislative measures, addressing constituent concerns and recommending improvements to House operations.

Iloilo 3rd District Rep. Lorenz Defensor was elected as senior deputy majority leader.

His appointment was moved by Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. and House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos and approved without objection.

Defensor emphasized his commitment to act based on principle over political loyalty.

“Even if they’re not my ally, as long as they are in the right, I will support them,” he told RMN Iloilo.

“And even if they are my ally, I will not hesitate to hold them accountable if proper processes are not followed or if their actions are not for the good of the Filipino people.”

As senior deputy majority leader, Defensor will assist Marcos in managing the legislative agenda and floor activities of the majority bloc.

His responsibilities include directing deliberations, coordinating with fellow lawmakers and ensuring the smooth flow of legislative work.

In the absence or incapacity of the majority leader, Defensor may assume those responsibilities.

Previously a deputy majority leader, Defensor is also among the members of the impeachment prosecution team against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Iloilo City Lone District Rep. Julienne “Jam-Jam” Baronda will continue to serve as one of the deputy majority leaders.

She will help manage the majority bloc’s legislative business, support floor deliberations and serve as vice chairperson of the Committee on Rules.

She will also help develop policy strategies aligned with the priorities of the coalition.

Uswag Ilonggo Party-list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang Jr. was elected as one of the assistant majority leaders.

His duties include assisting in floor deliberations, helping implement the majority’s legislative agenda and coordinating with other majority members to ensure an efficient flow of legislation.