House leadership dispute over as Cayetano retains speakership

Malacañang declared the leadership dispute in the House of Representatives as "over" after a majority of its members rejected Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano's resignation, allowing him to retain his post.

Cayetano's continued leadership comes at a crucial time as the House deliberates on the proposed P4.506-trillion national budget for 2021, intended to fund COVID-19 pandemic mitigation efforts.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque urged lawmakers to prioritize and pass the national spending plan promptly, emphasizing its importance for the country's pandemic response.

The House aims to conclude its budget deliberations by October 14, before the scheduled month-long break.

Cayetano's offer to resign was reportedly to facilitate a term-sharing agreement with rival Lord Allan Velasco, following President Rodrigo Duterte's appeal for both parties to honor their deal.