Inside the House: the duties of the Speaker of the House of Representatives

The Speaker of the House of Representatives is one of the most sought-after positions in Philippine politics. Many statesmen and heroes have held this important post, such as Sergio Osmeña, Manuel Roxas, Jose Laurel Jr., Manny Villar, and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, to name a few.

As the political and administrative head of the House, the Speaker is responsible for managing its proceedings, activities, resources, facilities, and employees, working closely with the House Secretary General, whom the Speaker usually appoints.

Under Article VII of the 1987 Constitution, if no President or Vice-President has been chosen or has qualified, or if both die or become permanently disabled, the President of the Senate—or, in case of his inability, the Speaker of the House of Representatives—shall act as President until a new President or Vice-President is elected and qualified. This makes the Speaker fourth in the line of succession to the presidency.

Below are the key responsibilities of the Speaker of the House:

1. Setting the legislative agenda

The foremost duty of a House member is to legislate, and the Speaker plays a crucial role in preparing the legislative agenda for each regular session. This includes establishing systems and procedures to ensure thorough deliberation and swift approval of proposed measures.

Due to the extensive workload, the Speaker appoints Deputy Speakers, the Majority Leader, committee chairpersons, and other House members to help delegate tasks, allowing the Speaker to focus on more pressing legislative matters.

2. Supervising house committees

The Speaker exercises general supervision over all House committees and is expected to conduct regular monthly meetings with committee chairpersons and vice-chairpersons. These meetings help set legislative targets, review performance, and align committee priorities with the House’s overall legislative agenda.

Additionally, the Speaker has the power to sign all acts, resolutions, memorials, writs, warrants, and subpoenas issued by or upon order of the House for the effective conduct of hearings.

3. House Speaker presides over house sessions

One of the most visible duties of the Speaker is presiding over House sessions. This includes calling the House to order, ensuring orderly discussions, and reading bills during their First Reading before referring them to the appropriate committees. The Speaker's role in these proceedings is crucial to maintaining the flow of legislative work.

4. Overseeing administrative and budgetary matters

Beyond legislative duties, the Speaker also manages the administrative functions of the House. This includes preparing the House's annual budget with the assistance of the Committee on Accounts, overseeing the discipline of House personnel in accordance with Civil Service Rules, and reviewing, approving, and signing contracts entered into by the House.

These responsibilities ensure that the House of Representatives operates efficiently and has a sustainable budget for the next fiscal year.

5. Representing the house in international affairs

The Speaker serves as the permanent head of delegation and representative of the House in all international parliamentary gatherings and organizations. However, the Speaker may designate another House member to represent them when necessary.

Through these responsibilities, the Speaker plays a crucial role in shaping national legislation, maintaining order in the House, and representing the country in international legislative affairs.