Early Foundations

  • 1907: The Philippine Assembly was established under American rule. Sergio Osmeña became the first Speaker.
  • 1935–1946: Under the Commonwealth and post-war era, figures like José Yulo and Eugenio Pérez held the speakership, often aligned with the ruling party.
  • Post-Independence Era
  • 1950s–1970s: The speakership rotated among party stalwarts like Daniel Romualdez and Cornelio Villareal, reflecting the Nacionalista–Liberal rivalry.
  • 1972–1986: During Martial Law, Congress was dissolved and replaced by the Batasang Pambansa, with Querube Makalintal and later Nicanor Yñiguez serving as speakers under Marcos.

Post-EDSA and Democratic Restoration

  • 1987: After the 1986 People Power Revolution, the House was restored. Ramon Mitra Jr. became Speaker under President Cory Aquino.
  • 1992–1998: Jose de Venecia Jr. served under President Fidel Ramos, known for coalition-building and economic legislation. Frequent Shifts and Political Drama
  • 1998–2000: De Venecia was ousted during Estrada’s presidency amid corruption controversies. Manny Villar replaced him.
  • 2001–2008: De Venecia returned under Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo but was again ousted in 2008 after criticizing her administration. Prospero Nograles took over.

Aquino to Duterte Era

  • 2010–2016: Feliciano Belmonte Jr. served under President Benigno Aquino III, maintaining relative stability.
  • 2016–2018: Under Duterte, Pantaleon Alvarez became Speaker but was ousted in 2018 by Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, marking her political comeback. Marcos Jr. Era and Recent Shake-ups
  • 2022–2025: Martin Romualdez, cousin of President Bongbong Marcos, was elected Speaker. His term was marked by budget controversies and flood control scandals.
  • September 2025: Romualdez resigned amid corruption allegations and pressure from the executive. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III was elected as the new Speaker.
  • Patterns and Insights
  • Presidential Influence: Most speakership changes are closely tied to the sitting president’s preferences or political fallout.
  • Coalition Dynamics: Shifts often occur during midterm elections or major scandals, when alliances fracture.
  • Power Consolidation: The speakership is a strategic post for controlling legislative agenda and budget allocations.