MANILA, Philippines — Minority bloc senators on Tuesday condemned what they called an “attempt to rush a major change in Senate rules” as the majority moved to suddenly amend session rules to allow absent lawmakers to participate through teleconference.
In a statement, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan explained that the minority walked out of the Senate plenary hall because what was unfolding inside was being “rushed by the tyranny of the majority” and “looked less like orderly deliberation.”
He also once again questioned whether the proposed rule change was being rushed to benefit the now-in-hiding Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and other senators facing plunder allegations.
READ: Senate minority: Majority rushing rule change for members with raps?
“The timing raises a question that the public deserves to hear debated openly. That is why we chose to stand and leave the majority on the plenary floor. That is why we decided to question the quorum and move for adjournment,” said Pangilinan.
“If the proposal is truly defensible, then let it pass through the proper route. We owe it to the people who voted for us to do our mandate. This is why we want more time to discuss this further,” he added.