Co steps down as House appropriations chair due to health reasons
MANILA, Philippines — Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co stepped down as chairperson of the House of Representatives committee on appropriations due to health concerns.
In a statement, Co explained that he needs to prioritize seeking medical attention for an undisclosed health issue
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the majority in Congress for graciously accepting my decision to step down as Chairman of the House committee on appropriations. This decision, made with a heavy heart, is driven by pressing health concerns. The highly demanding nature of my role has taken its toll, and I now need to prioritize seeking the medical attention necessary for my well-being,” he said.
“I have always served at the pleasure of the Majority. I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with the immense responsibility of steering the nation’s budget in service of the House of the people and the constituents we represent,” he added.
During the resumption of Congress’ session on Monday, Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Sandro Marcos moved to declare Co’s position vacant. The motion was approved by House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
READ: Rep. Co removed from House appropriations post; replacement pending
Article continues after this advertisementWhen the position was declared vacant, no reason was given for Co’s removal from his post, and no replacement was named as the motion was made right before Romualdez’s speech on the resumption of the session.
Article continues after this advertisementAccording to Co, he took pride in the House’s collective achievements, particularly the Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program, a one-time aid for middle-class workers initiated in the 2024 budget deliberation process.
“In the past three years, I take pride in our collective accomplishments, particularly the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program, which provides critical support to those with income insufficient for their family needs. As the proud sponsor and shepherd of the budgets for 2023, 2024, and 2025, I ensured alignment with the President’s eight-point economic agenda,” he said.
“Notably, securing funding for legacy initiatives in health, housing, and food security — particularly legacy hospitals and contract farming — will remain highlights of my service. Thank you for this extraordinary privilege to serve,” he added.
Co was a key ally of the House leadership, participating in several programs initiated by the Speaker and other key members of the legislative body. On December 12, Co joined Romualdez and his wife, Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, at a Christmas party for children at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC).
READ: Zero billing for kids currently admitted at PCMC – Romualdez
Co is also seen as one of the architects of the AKAP, which has been the subject of criticism from observers, as it is allegedly vulnerable to politicking.
READ: Co hits OVP’s secret funds while touting Akap for high use rate
