By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Surigao del Sur First District Rep. Romeo S. Momo Sr. has formally tendered his courtesy resignation as a member of the Bicameral Conference Committee deliberating on the proposed General Appropriations Bill for fiscal year 2026, citing respect for democratic institutions and commitment to public service.
In a statement posted on his social media page, Momo said the decision followed “deep reflection” and was made with full awareness of the responsibilities entrusted to him as a legislator, stressing that the move was neither easy nor impulsive.
“This courtesy resignation is not an admission of guilt,” Momo said, adding that it was instead an affirmation of values he said must guide every public servant, including honor, integrity, accountability, and respect for democratic institutions.
The resignation came after lawyer Mary Helen Zafra publicly questioned Momo’s continued membership in the bicameral panel, calling on House Speaker Martin Romualdez and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to act on the matter.
Zafra made the call after she, together with Catholic priests from the Diocese of Tandag, filed a plunder and graft complaint against the lawmaker before the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday.
Zafra said allowing Momo to remain part of the committee deliberating on the national budget raised serious concerns, given the gravity of the allegations raised in the complaint.
Momo, however, said he remains fully confident that the truth will prevail through proper legal processes, expressing willingness to face any investigation and affirming his trust in the rule of law.
While stepping back from the bicameral panel, the lawmaker said he would continue to discharge his duties as a member of the House of Representatives and as the duly elected representative of Surigao del Sur’s First District.
The Bicameral Conference Committee is responsible for reconciling the differing versions of the proposed national budget approved separately by the House and the Senate.
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