HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday welcomed college interns who are part of the Strategic Mentoring and Research Training or SMART Internship Program of the House of Representatives, which he described as a visionary project that aims to groom the next generation of leaders.

“Our dear SMART interns, you are not just entering an institution; you’re stepping into the heart of our democracy. This is not merely an observational exercise but an avenue to understand the intricate machinery that drives our legislative body,” Romualdez told the 32 college interns from the University of the Philippines, Lyceum University, Trinity and University of Sto. Tomas.

The participants in the internship program will be assigned in the secretariat of the lower chamber.

“The Secretariat is the backbone of the House of the People. It ensures that the processes of drafting, deliberating, and passing legislation happen seamlessly. The value of the Secretariat in legislation is immense. Their work ensures that the voices of millions are effectively translated into policies and laws,” Romualdez added.

He said that the program is the chamber’s way of ensuring that the torch of leadership and service in the House of Representatives is passed on to capable hands.

“To all the interns: you’ve been chosen because of your potential and the promise you show. Here, you’ll be part of a mission, a bigger picture, where we’re linking the passion of our youth with the experience and wisdom of the House of the People,” Romuldez said.

The interns will witness, firsthand, how the House secretariat works, not just in legislation but also in nation-building.

“By ensuring that every piece of legislation is meticulously handled, the Secretariat upholds the principles of our democracy, ensuring that our nation’s growth is rooted in the collective will of its people,” Romualdez said.