MANILA, Philippines – Press statements in the past week have strongly indicated that House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo were not in good terms.

Romualdez said there was a need to block destabilization efforts in the House, just days after Arroyo insisted she was not trying to instigate a coup against his longtime mentee.

But on Monday, May 22, Romualdez wanted to send a message to spectators of the congressional drama: that he has made peace with his reliable political ally.

We provide a rundown of the spectacle in the House of Representatives in this Rappler Recap.

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Romualdez’s gesture of peace included a mano po gesture, holding Arroyo’s hand, and exchanging pleasantries with her.

Read the rest of our reports here:

• Gloria Arroyo demoted, loses ‘senior’ title in House deputy speakership
• WATCH: The moment Gloria Arroyo was removed as House senior deputy speaker
• Loyalty check? House blocs affirm support for Speaker Romualdez amid ouster plot rumors
• Gloria Arroyo denies ouster plot vs Speaker Romualdez
• Sara Duterte resigns from Lakas-CMD amid House drama between Romualdez, Arroyo
• Uniteam no more? House squabble puts spotlight on 2025, 2028 elections
• House drama: Romualdez says focus on work, not political destabilization
• Water under the bridge? Romualdez, Arroyo hold hands after tense week in House

– Rappler.com