Members of the House of Representatives from Batangas have adopted a resolution condemning what they described as “malicious, irresponsible, and baseless” allegations made by First District Representative Leandro Leviste against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto.

Through House Resolution 994, Batangas legislators expressed full support and solidarity with the Recto couple following Leviste’s privilege speech delivered on Tuesday, May 5, which allegedly contained accusations of anomalies in the province.

The resolution was spearheaded by Batangas 6th District Representative Ryan Recto and signed by fellow Batangas lawmakers: 4th District Rep. Amado Carlos Bolilia, 3rd District Rep. King George Collantes, 5th District Rep. Beverly Rose Dimacuha, and 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro.

The signatories emphasized that the allegations raised during the privilege speech were not supported by competent, verifiable, or documentary evidence and were largely based on anonymous sources.

Lawmakers also stressed that parliamentary immunity should not be used as a tool to advance personal or political interests, warning against its misuse within legislative proceedings.

They further described Leviste’s actions as a “grave misuse of legislative authority,” alleging that his statements effectively contributed to the spread of misinformation within public discourse.

Batangas representatives said they believe the issue is politically motivated, claiming that the privilege speech was intended to undermine the decades-long public service record of the Rectos in Batangas.

The resolution underscores growing political tensions within the province following the controversial remarks made on the House floor.