House suspends session before Christmas break after historic 2026 national budget approval – Photo from House of Representatives/Facebook
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III opened the second regular session of the 20th Congress on Monday by urging lawmakers and Filipinos to pair policy reforms with a renewed commitment to shared values.
Dy said the country’s progress depended not only on effective legislation but also on compassion, respect, faith and bayanihan.
He described these values as a source of strength that had helped Filipinos endure crises and support one another during difficult periods.
His message came as the country continued to face high prices of basic goods and deep political divisions linked to the rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.
Dy warned that the erosion of concern for others posed a serious threat to society, saying change should begin with individual conduct and responsibility.
He also encouraged Filipinos to remain patient, helpful and committed to the country, echoing Marcos’ earlier appeal for citizens to continue defending and caring for the Philippines.
The speaker said resilience had long been rooted in solidarity, empathy and cooperation, which he described as defining traits of the Filipino people.
Dy called on the public to help rebuild the country’s moral foundations through honesty, accountability and everyday acts of service as Congress resumed its legislative work.