FIRST District Representative John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II has clarified that his vote in favor of the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte was not the reason behind his appointment as Vice Chairperson of the powerful House Committee on Appropriations.
Yap said that his appointment was based on his competence and experience in financial management, which earned the trust and confidence of his fellow lawmakers. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help shape the country’s national budget.
As a newly appointed committee official, Yap said he will coordinate with Committee Chairperson Rep. Mikaela Mika Suansing, as well as local leaders in his district, to ensure that priority projects are included in the 2027 National Budget. These include the construction of covered courts and barangay halls, road concreting projects, the upgrading of rural health units, and other healthcare services.
One of his top priorities is the Bato Bridge in Maribojoc, for which the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has committed an additional ₱92 million in emergency funding to complete the project within the year and reopen it to all types of vehicles.
Yap also said that the bidding process for the Third Panglao–Tagbilaran Bridge, a project funded by the French government, is expected to begin this year.
He pledged to use his new position and influence to help fast-track the implementation of priority projects in his district and bring greater development opportunities to the people of Bohol. (RTB)
