In an interview with Palace reporters, Duterte said his endorsement of House leaders is not interference in the affairs of Congress. Prior to naming his choice for House leader, Duterte and the Palace said he would keep his hands off the speakership contest. Makabayan: Duterte’s endorsement ‘compromised’ House independenceLawmakers from the Makabayan bloc said the independence of the lower chamber has been compromised anew with the president’s endorsement of the two prospective speakers. But for one political analyst, Duterte’s endorsement of a shared speakership will not have any implications on congressional independence, which he said has never existed anyway. "His position can help the House speaker enormously in advancing his personal agenda and political ambition."

Source: Philippine Star July 09, 2019 08:48 UTC