Co steps down as House appropriations chairman due to health

Metro Manila, Philippines - Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co stepped down as chairman of the powerful appropriations committee of the House of Representatives on Monday, Jan. 13, citing health issues.

Co released a statement hours after his colleagues approved a motion to declare his position vacant — among the first plenary actions on the first session day after the Christmas break.

“I move to declare vacant the position of chairperson of the committee of appropriations,” said presidential son and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Sandro Marcos, a senior deputy minority leader.

“Chair hears no objection. The said motion is carried,” said House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Marcos’ uncle.

Co has no replacement as yet.

Co expressed his “heartfelt gratitude” to the House majority for accepting his decision, which was “made with a heavy heart” and was “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.

The appropriations committee handles all budget matters including the General Appropriations Bill. Co shepherded the approval of the national budgets for 2023 to 2025.

“I have always served at the pleasure of the majority,” the party-list lawmaker said. “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.”