Row in Congress delays Philippine president’s speech

By Maecy Alviar

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (AA) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s annual State of the Nation Address was delayed for over an hour Monday by a leadership row in Congress.

A tug-of-war for the speaker position erupted in the House of Representatives by incumbent speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Pampanga province representative and former Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Arroyo, in a surprise move before Duterte’s arrival at the headquarters of the House of Representatives, took her oath as Alvarez’s successor while the latter was waiting to welcome the president in another part of the halls of Congress.

Congress’ morning session was abruptly adjourned by Alvarez’ allies to preempt the ouster move allegedly led by presidential daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio.

Due to the unexpected early adjournment, the lower House failed to ratify the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which Duterte had been expected to sign into law before delivering his speech. In contrast, the Senate earlier ratified it.

"Give me 48 hours to sign it and ratify the law,” said Duterte in his speech, stressing that the Bangsamoro law is his solemn commitment to Muslim Filipinos.

The signing of the law would have been Duterte’s surprise on the day of his speech, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque earlier said but clarified that it is only going through a temporary setback due to the internal leadership issues in Congress.

Hours after Duterte delivered his speech, Arroyo was formally elected by 184 affirmative votes as the new House speaker Monday evening with Alvarez seated behind her.

Other highlights of Duterte’s State of the Nation address include his administration’s “relentless and chilling” anti-drug campaign, which he said is far from over despite criticisms over human rights violations.

Duterte also stressed that he would not waiver in defending the Philippines' interests in the disputed South China Sea even as he touted his administration’s closer ties with Beijing.

He also touted his government’s sound relations with other countries, saying the Philippines will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy.

Amid the country’s losses from the rehabilitation of tourist destination Boracay Island, Duterte stood firm on his decision and revealed that other tourist spots would soon follow.

The tough talking president also rejected calls to put on hold the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, emphasizing that it is needed in promoting inclusive growth.

Duterte’s speech Monday was the shortest in his three annual reports to the nation so far and had been surprisingly free of the usual expletives.