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.

Article continues after this advertisement

“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.

FEATURED STORIES NEWSINFO INC rally: 650,000 people now around Quirino Grandstand – police NEWSINFO Crowd estimate at INC rally in Quirino Grandstand reaches 1.5 million NEWSINFO Rep. Co removed from House appropriations post; replacement pending

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.

jackpot machine

READ: Rep. Co removed from House appropriations post; replacement pending

Article continues after this advertisement

When 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 advertisement

According 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.

Article continues after this advertisement

“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.

Article continues after this advertisement

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).

China has struggled with high youth unemployment, falling consumption, and a property sector crisis in recent years, all of which threaten the government’s goal of five percent growth this year.

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.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

SIGN ME UP

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

READ: Co hits OVP’s secret funds while touting Akap for high use ratemega swerte

READ NEXT Romualdez assures: House probes, oversight function to continue PNP: Active cops in P6.7-B drug mess now under restrictive cus... EDITORS' PICK INC peace rally: Lacuna supports Marcos opposition to VP impeachment Meralco cuts January electricity rate by P0.2189 per kWh Double win for Lumad Basakanon in Sinulog sa Dakbayan 2025 Rep. Co removed from House appropriations post; replacement pending LIST: Sinulog sa Dakbayan 2025 winners PNP: Active cops in P6.7-B drug mess now under restrictive custody MOST READ Rep. Co removed from House appropriations post; replacement pending INQToday: INC members call for peace between Sara Duterte, Bongbong Marcos LIVE UPDATES: INC National Rally for Peace PDIC to hike bank deposit protection Follow @FMangosingINQ on Twitter --> View comments