House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Representative Janette Garin addressed the recent tension in the plenary session during the deliberation of the Department of Health (DOH) budget.
Garin referred to the incident as “unfortunate” and urged the public for understanding, explaining that the heated exchange was part of the legislative process.
Garin emphasized that debates in Congress are not meant to demean lawmakers, but are necessary for pushing ideas forward, particularly when discussions occur under time pressure, such as the final night of the session when critical bills are passed.
The former health secretary admitted that emotions can run high, especially when there are disagreements, but reiterated that these exchanges are part of the process to ensure effective legislation.
She also acknowledged becoming emotional during the incident.
As a staunch health advocate, Garin reiterated her commitment to improving public healthcare without compromising the DOH budget.
She noted that DOH representatives had been in Congress for three consecutive days to secure funding for programs aimed at delivering quality services to Filipinos.
Tension arose when Agri party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee attempted to interrupt Senior Deputy Minority Leader Paul Daza during the final stages of the DOH budget deliberations, prompting Garin to support the minority’s motion to conclude the debates.
Garin clarified that after the microphone scuffle, she spoke with Rep. Lee, and both agreed that the incident was purely work-related and not personal.
“All is well that ends well,” Garin said, confirming that the matter had been resolved.
