Senate Considers Halting Bato Dela Rosa's Salary Over Extended Absence
In a significant development within the Philippine Senate, the salary of Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa may be suspended due to his prolonged absence from legislative duties. Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson announced on Tuesday that the chamber is actively exploring this possibility, sparking discussions on accountability and adherence to Senate protocols.
Legal Review Underway for Potential Salary Suspension
According to Lacson, the Senate is currently studying a potential amendment to the Senate Rules that would authorize the suspension of Dela Rosa's salary. This move comes as the senator has been notably absent from Senate sessions, raising concerns about his participation in critical legislative processes. Lacson emphasized that any action must be grounded in a solid legal basis, noting that senators are covered under civil service laws, which require careful consideration before implementation.
Ethics Panel and Plenary Involvement in Decision-Making
Lacson further explained that the Senate's ethics panel could play a key role in this matter. The panel may recommend the salary suspension, which would then need to be adopted and enforced by the plenary session of the Senate. This step ensures that the decision follows established parliamentary procedures and garners broad support among senators before taking effect.
Background on Dela Rosa's Absence and Legal Context
The discussion around Dela Rosa's salary suspension is set against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding his legal status. It has not been officially confirmed whether an arrest warrant has been issued against him in connection to a crimes against humanity case linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte, where Dela Rosa is reportedly named as a co-perpetrator. This legal ambiguity adds complexity to the Senate's deliberations, as they must balance disciplinary actions with due process and legal protections for the senator.
Overall, this situation highlights ongoing challenges in the Philippine political landscape, where accountability and legislative attendance are under scrutiny. The Senate's potential move to suspend Dela Rosa's salary underscores a commitment to upholding institutional integrity, pending further legal and ethical reviews.
