Mercedes Alvarez returns as House deputy speaker

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental 6th District Rep. Mercedes “Cheding” Alvarez has vowed to continue serving her constituents with dedication after returning to the House of Representatives’ leadership as a deputy speaker.

In a Facebook post Wednesday, Alvarez described her appointment as an unexpected honor and said she remained committed to making the most of the opportunity entrusted to her.

“Ten years later, the title may be familiar, but the responsibility feels just as weighty,” she said in a statement, two days after taking her oath before House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III during the Aug. 3 plenary session.

Alvarez was first elected a deputy speaker in July 2016 and served in the position during the 17th Congress.

Reflecting on her return to the House leadership, Alvarez said life had “a funny way of bringing things full circle” as she thanked her fellow lawmakers and the Nationalist People’s Coalition for their trust and support.

“I accept it with the same commitment: to work, to listen, and to use every opportunity entrusted to me to serve our people well,” she said.

Known for promoting locally made products from her district, Alvarez wore a dress made from fabric handwoven by the Negros Nine Weavers during her oath-taking ceremony.

“I am carrying a piece of home, the place I love—the CHICKS area,” she said.

The CHICKS area refers to the cities of Kabankalan and Sipalay and the municipalities of Candoni, Hinoba-an, Ilog, and Cauayan, which comprise the province’s 6th District.

Before her appointment, Alvarez served as vice chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations.

She succeeded Ilocos Sur Rep. Kristine Singson-Meehan as a deputy speaker.

Her appointment came as the House reorganized several leadership positions.

In March, Bacolod Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, leader of the Visayan bloc, was also named a deputy speaker.

Several local government units congratulated Alvarez on her new post in Congress.

In a Facebook post, Hinoba-an Mayor Daph Reliquias said the appointment was a testament to Alvarez’s steadfast leadership, strong commitment to service, and dedication to prioritizing the people’s welfare.

Reliquias said the appointment reflected her fellow representatives’ trust and confidence in her ability to help steer the nation’s legislative efforts.

“We are happy for your achievement and are confident that you will continue to champion meaningful initiatives that will bring lasting progress to the sixth district and the country as a whole,” Reliquias said.

Cauayan Mayor John Rey Tabujara expressed pride in Alvarez’s new post, highlighting her leadership and excellence.

“Your unwavering commitment to the people shines brighter than ever. We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to your continued leadership in the House of Representatives,” he said.

Ilog Mayor John Paul Alvarez said he hoped the lawmaker would continue to lead with excellence and dedication in serving the Filipino people.

Candoni Mayor Ray Ruiz recognized Alvarez’s continued dedication to public service and commitment to the people of Negros Occidental.

“May you continue to lead with strength, compassion, and purpose as you serve our district and our nation,” Ruiz said.

Also given a new assignment during Monday’s plenary session was Negros Occidental 1st District Rep. Julio Ledesma IV, who was designated chairperson of the House Committee on Economic Affairs.