Senate Session | May 12, 2026

Ajouté : 2026-05-16

[00:00:00]2026 and consider the same as approved.

[00:00:03]Mr. President, before we do that, may we uh uh the uh gentleman from Cavitz, Senator Ping Laxon, is seeking the floor. I move that he be recognized. Mr. President, >> Senator Laxon is uh >> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh before we uh approve the journal before we act on the motion uh of the uh acting majority leader, I have a parliamentary inquiry.

[00:00:26]Yesterday, two motions were made. No. Uh the first one made by Senator Billa uh citing uh in contempt of the Senate the NBI agents who allegedly tried to prevent Senator Del Rosa from attending yesterday's session and the second one concerning the proposed amendments to the rules uh made by a motion made by Senator Maruetta.

[00:00:52]>> On the first uh motion, Mr. President.

[00:00:56]Um, I would just like to ask how my vote was counted.

[00:01:07]>> Yeah, >> there was no division of the house.

[00:01:14]>> I had a copy of the the U PSN of yesterday's session, Mr. president and it says uh which led to the and I quote in part which led to the body's unanimous consent to move that we site in contempt those individuals running after Senator Ronald Bat de la Rosa Mr. Mr. President, as per our rules, particularly rule 41, section 117, it says here, the vote of a senator absent from the session. At the moment, he is called to vote shall not be counted. At that time we were at the lounge along with uh Senator Tito, Senator Risa, Senator Kiko and uh Senator Mig, you know we were at the lounge and we were monitoring the proceedings the uh ongoing session and to say that uh my vote is counted along with the others because it says here unanimous that's why I stood up uh before we approved the the journal. Mr. for for a full uh explan explanation of that I will refer to the committee on rules because to my knowledge that is the tradition of this chamber when we pass resolutions and there's no objection whoever is present uh during the time is counted as uh uh as to have voted for it that that has been the tradition even during the time of senator so thank you Mr. But if that is the inquiry so that we can uh set straight our rules and the records uh if the gentleman wishes I will refer to the committee and rules and ask them to report out maybe by Monday.

[00:02:59]>> Thank you Mr. President. Except that rule 41 as I mentioned section 117 session hall at the moment uh he is called to vote shall not be counted.

[00:03:15]>> Yes. which for example the resolution uh against the Chinese ambassador many of us weren't in the session hall no objection so in many many periods but I see the gentleman's point and if we want to be uh accurate uh then let's ask the committee on rules which uh includes the minority to come out with a better formulation.

[00:03:48]>> Uh let it be placed on record, Mr. President, that uh my manifestation uh does not in any way uh uh showing sympathy uh with the NBI agents who grappled with uh our colleague here in the first place. Senator Delar Rosa is a fellow cabalier, not to mention a former subordinate in the defunct presidential anti-organized task anti-organized crime task force and he's a fellow senator.

[00:04:16]>> That's very >> So just to >> Yes, that's very well taken. And for the record, Senator Laxon has always stood up uh if he thinks that there's a mislication of the rules. But just on that point of the NBI, I think we're far from uh going into the whole truth because uh early this morning, I think 7 a.m. I was watching the videos. I saw I do not know whose vehicle it is, but it's a white vehicle with uh seven uh lumalabas NBI ocular inspection su which is uh a violation if you do it anywhere in the country but right outside our gates. So although we agreed with the NBI director for factf finding I think this issue is far from over. So I thank you Senator Lakon for making that nuance that uh you are you are talking about the rules not this the >> the sentiment of the uh the Senate to protect our integrity >> on the substantive uh aspect of my manifestation Mr. President remember Lincoln of the uh formally uh controversy GR number 25741 leading case March 2023 Supreme Court and I'll just mention the uh separate concurring opinion of the no less than the chief justice Alex Gizmundo sabirto Asto as as succinctly succinctly pointed out by the chief justice Alexander Gasmundo, witnesses who are charged by Congress with giving false or evasive test. This is uh pertaining to the committee hearings per must be accorded stricter due process. So, president and I was about to ask again if if it was a direct contempt or an indirect contempt because if it was an indirect contempt all the more that uh they they should uh have been asked to uh explain first before they were cited in contempt of the Senate and thereafter uh taken under the custody of the Senate. So, procedurally procedurally incorrect or infirmed So we uh the minority leader, the former Senate President first before I comment.

[00:06:51]>> Yes, Mr. President. I yield.

[00:06:53]>> Yes.

[00:06:54]>> All right. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President.

[00:06:57]um inherent right.

[00:07:00]>> Do I take it that you mean that um the practice that we've had before is that when a vote is taken and no one objects those who um um answer the call of the role are deemed present and are deemed that have um approved. I found out out when they voted on the resolution where I interpolated Senator Pangilinan. So I was in my room not on the floor and I was explained to me that that's the procedure.

[00:07:40]>> Uh so even under your Senate presidency minority leader >> correct.

[00:07:44]>> So that's why I was answering Senator Lakon that I see his point but uh to my knowledge that is the uh tradition.

[00:07:53]>> Yes, I agree. As a matter of fact, I agree with what you said and your answer to Senator Lakon. But my point uh Mr. president. Then in that case then uh one of us or I who have voted in favor based on our tradition would like a reconsideration >> a motion for reconsideration of the motion to contempt >> to contempt >> not because uh it is again like uh what Senator Lson mentioned it's not about does not have anything to do with the people of the NBI or us or Senator Bau. It's only based on rules.

[00:08:32]>> Yes.

[00:08:32]>> Why? So, can we move for a reconsideration, Mr. President? So, I can explain why.

[00:08:39]>> That is your right uh minority leader.

[00:08:41]>> All right. Thank you.

[00:08:41]>> So, anyone who on record voted for uh any motion has the right uh during the next day and actually we're in the same session day >> uh within >> within two session days. And technically, we're in the same session day. So, it is your right to move for reconsideration. then uh the majority leader will either adhere or will object.

[00:09:04]>> All right. Correct. Thank you, Mr. President. Now, here's the point. Um based on our rules, the rules of the Senate and it is consistent with the fact of the contempor of the Senate is limited only during inquiries in aid of legislation. This is what the committee on rules will have to tackle in that particular motion to sign and contempt anyone from the session hall. The impeachment court is empowered too, but not the Senate. I cannot find it in the rules. So, you know, section 18 of the Senate resolution number five, the rules of procedure governing inquiries and in aid of legislation provides that a chairman with the concurrence of at least one member of the committee may punish or cite in contempt any witness before a committee who disobys any order of the committee or refuses to be sworn or testify or for falsely or evasively testifying.

[00:10:08]Further, as emphasized in this Senate Senate resolution 145, the power of contempt is inherent to the enforcement of the right to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation.

[00:10:21]So um in fact Senate resolution 237 such power of contempt was delegated to the subcommittees as they comprise the same membership as the main committee and should have the committee's full powers including the power to site and punish witnesses in contempt. All right.

[00:10:41]Now uh the other instance that we are allowed to the power of contempt is during impeachment proceedings constituted as an impeachment court uh not as a senate only in in committee hearings in aid of legislation. So um the only instant that instance that contempt is mentioned in our rules is the duty of the sergeant at arms to enforce a citation in contempt issued by any committee of the senate and to detain and place under custody witnesses etc etc and the the um jurist prudence mentioned by Santo Laxon by the Supreme Court in Ouong versus the Senate of the Philippines Um the Supreme Court discussed that commitment to the power of legislature to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation is its power of contempt impliedly provide provided under the 1987 constitution.

[00:11:50]So that is my point Mr. President. So I think we should not uh approve the motion to contempt right away without consulting the committee on rules to find out whether this is correct or not that we can only site in contempt. The Senate can site in contempt when we are in aid of legislation and we are in a committee. Uh so maybe uh maybe >> before we have a ruling, let me just uh expound on the decision yesterday. Mhm.

[00:12:19][clears throat] Uh the chair yesterday mentioned that in uh several Supreme Court decisions as early as Arnold versus Nasareno, the Supreme Court upheld the inherent right to self-preservation of the legislative body and the chair explained that if a committee is given a power to hold in contempt so much more the plenary and that There are two kinds of contempt.

[00:12:51]>> The indirect contempt and the direct contempt. So, for example, if uh uh Maria and Pedro were now sitting in the gallery and they started shouting, if the sergeant-at-arms took them out, but they came back and they started throwing stones, we can hold them or they had guns, we can uh send them for inquest or we can hold them in uh contempt because it's part of uh self-preservation. So even in the decision mentioned by senator uh Lakon has to deal with the issue at hand. The Russo decidendi or the reason for the decision always deals with only the issue at hand and the issue at hand then was the contempt powers of legislation in aid of legislation.

[00:13:48]But despite that still the Supreme Court again said indeed the exercise of contempt power by legislature is anchored on self-preservation and they uh had a footnote from the previous uh cases. Having said that uh I'd like to ask the pleasure of the minority leader would you like to vote on it or would you like us to send this to the legal and then give them a day or two to or until Monday to >> because the problem with I was thinking of that Mr. President if you don't mind I'm sorry for interrupting you sir >> um because the Supreme Court itself >> laid down the limitations oh that's why we have to discuss it in perhaps in the committee or the legal no the first limitation the subject hearings were conducted in aid of legislation one two second limitation the asal rules are compliant with the publication requirement of section 21 article 6 of the 1987 constitution And the third limitation is that the committee failed to accord petitioners their constitutional right to due process relative to the conduct of its proceedings. Therefore uh we were in plenary session yesterday and then we were suspended when uh uh this [clears throat] event was being discussed. So again the pleasure really Mr. President if you do not mind is that we refer the motion to the committee >> rules. We are in agreement. But just to explain one example I gave yesterday, even if it wasn't in the rules of court or even if there's no precedent, if we were in the Supreme Court and while they were in hearing, I ran after or tried to arrest or tried to mug one of the justices, they can hold me in direct contempt because it's really about self-preservation.

[00:15:40]So the events yesterday was so grave that yes we need cooler heads because we we really have to discuss the problems of agriculture, the problems of the economy, priv problems of transportation.

[00:15:55]And of course we're all aware that the house voted for impeachment yesterday.

[00:15:59]So we're all preparing for that. But at the same time, we have to show the world uh including our local law enforcers that uh you cannot play around with the Senate as an institution. And when you're trying to prevent a member from attending, that is direct contempt of uh the Senate. So I'm in agreement if it if uh we can all agree uh that we send it first to the >> Yes.

[00:16:27]uh legal and uh maybe we'll invite any legal staff of all the senate offices so that they can participate there >> because it's an issue that uh so that we we won't take uh one opinion hook line and sinker but get all the brilliant minds of the uh offices of the 24 senators then discuss it but uh and we'll hold the reconsideration in obeyance until we we have that if it's acceptable to the former senate President >> I I concur. So I so move, Mr. President.

[00:17:00]>> Thank you very So the mo is there any objection to the motion that the ruling uh the motion and the ruling to hold in contempt will be now studied by the referred and studied by our legal department which who will also invite uh lawyers from each and every uh OS or office of the senators or the 24 senators.

[00:17:22]If there's none then >> Mr. President >> on on the second point.

[00:17:27]>> Yes.

[00:17:28]>> The second motion made by Senator Maketa proposing that rule 14 section 41B of the Senate rules be amended by including a new section 41C.

[00:17:42]Now while I commend the Senate President for deferring action uh uh on the motion of the uh honorable Marleta but still we should uh bear in mind that if we amend our rules necessarily we should refer it to the committee on rules. We cannot just decide in plenary to right there and then amend the rules.

[00:18:06]>> If I am correct uh in that regard Mr. President >> you're not only correct that's what happened. I referred it to the >> That's why I uh expressed my admiration and commendation for the action taken by the Senate President.

[00:18:18]>> Yes.

[00:18:18]>> So, we're clear on that.

[00:18:20]>> Yes. My my interpretation, Senator Luxon, is that was the intent of Senator Marcoa that because the rules is that uh one day for consideration.

[00:18:30]>> Yeah. For a motion, it's uh one day. I I'll just paraphrase. So my my interpretation of course I didn't stand up and go near to Senator Marcoa but my interpretation was that uh my understanding is I always have to follow the rules we always have to follow. So when a senator uh makes a motion and there is a specific rule then we will follow but the committee on rules is allowed to meet right away but that doesn't mean they can meet right away and not follow the one day uh the one day rule. Yeah, thank you for the clarification, sir.

[00:19:06]>> And thank you for that would be all.

[00:19:07]Yes. And to be fair to our former Senate President Migiri, he also made it very clear that uh our tradition is that if it is uh amendment of the rules uh we consult and then we not only give a copy. So actually the secretariat uh rewrote the I know the proposal and uh and maybe I I could just say that you know all of these were a product of what happened yesterday. No and of course we most of us had some sleep last night. I don't know Senator Batau if he had a good sleep. He told me he was not able to sleep last night, but Senator Padilia who stayed with him said you were sleeping very well. So, but maybe cooler heads today and hopefully we'll get uh our job done. No. Yeah.

[00:19:59]>> Majority leader.

[00:20:00]>> Yes, Mr. President.

[00:20:01]>> Thank you, Senator Lakon. Thank you.

[00:20:02]>> Thank you, Mr. President. And also just to put on record uh this representation when uh this representation filed that motion I was actually asking the uh plenary during that time about the possibility of uh looking into that particular uh incident. But anyway Mr. President uh we just also want to put on record that what we are trying to approve uh Mr. President the journal of the 61st session Wednesday was last May 6th Mr. president not yesterday. So just to put that on record that's May 6, 2026 was last week and that is the motion that uh we are uh uh putting.

[00:20:42]>> So any objection that we approve the journal of the session of Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

[00:20:50]If there's no objection or amendments, the motion is approved.

[00:20:54]>> Thank you, Mr. President. And before we proceed, may I just put into the records, Mr. President our uh gratitude and thanks for our guests who are here with us. Guest of senator Padilia de Bangamoro women from Barangai Maharika Tagig city. Mr. President they are here.

[00:21:10]Guest of senator Andiveros LG officials of Bulaaka Oriental Minduro led by Mayor Lumlito Kabag. We uh welcome them in this August chamber.

[00:21:21]>> You're recognized and welcome. No >> Mr. Maybe majority leader uh in behalf also of the Senate, I also apologize to those who had to stay longer within the Senate yesterday while we were identifying the the uh agents who ran after Senator Batau. I think even uh former Ched uh head Po Da and many others were here. And Senator Pia also reminded me that uh there there are hearings scheduled and just to inform the body the tradition is even if the positions are vacant, you can continue with the scheduled hearings because there are the same members and the chairman is automatically a a member.

[00:22:07]Senator Bamakino.

[00:22:08]>> Uh Mr. President, I'd like to clarify there's um a BCAM scheduled for Thursday. Yes. on the voucher bill which has been passed on third reading here and in the house. Shall we also continue with the bicam for the uh voucher program? Mr. President, >> if there's no objection, I think we should uh all continue and in fact I'm hoping to have a all uh senator kokus soon. I just don't know if today or tomorrow to discuss the the committees and to even consult the minority even before we offer certain committees. But anything that is uh uh pending and should be I I think the only uh things that are technically on hold is new hearings and the sponsorships on the floor pending uh designation of chairman.

[00:22:57]>> Thank you. Thank you for the clarification Mr. President.

[00:23:01]>> Mr. President also seeking the floor.

[00:23:04]It's just a just a class clarification as regards the uh uh the hearings of the committees that can be conducted. Uh when we say we will not be conducting new hearings.

[00:23:19]uh does this exclude uh hearings that were suspended and will just be uh under our rules allowed to resume uh as uh the hearings have yet to be terminated.

[00:23:34]>> So so the tradition is if there's a vacancy in the chairmanship there's a vice chairman that takes over but if the vacancies in all the the >> which is the case Mr. President in in all that the chairman can continue the hearings that are ongoing.

[00:23:53]>> So my interpretation is uh let's say you had a hearing today you conducted it uh then you say the next hearing is Monday but we hope to finish the committees by Monday in consultation with everyone so that uh so so with the understanding Mr. president that this uh suspension of our rules uh by unanimous consent >> uh it's not a suspension of it's a tradition uh that is consistent with the rules because when you're chairman uh you're automatically still a member of that yes I >> that I I'm telling you what the secretar informed me yesterday because senator Pia called me and said now called my attention and told me so unless we uh >> unless we designate her again as chairman of energy. So I consulted the secretariat and they mentioned the tradition that you don't have to cancel the hearing.

[00:24:52]>> Just a question, Mr. President.

[00:24:53]>> Yes, Mr. >> Thank [clears throat] you.

[00:24:55]>> independent.

[00:24:57]>> Thank you, Mr. >> Independent leader. There's two of you.

[00:24:59]>> There's two of us. The two independent leaders here. But Mr. President, just a quick question. Yes. because it's a bit uh confusing to our colleagues when they asked about uh their committee reports.

[00:25:10]Uh some are already supposed to be uh handled on the floor uh the committee hearings because I can recall that their motion yesterday was all positions vacant. So if it's all positions vacant, that would also mean the memberships.

[00:25:22]>> Yes.

[00:25:23]>> Uh Mr. President. So that's correct.

[00:25:25]>> Um yeah. So I'm just asking for clarification so that we can be guided accordingly. Uh if we do then we have to reorganize really quickly. That's why Mr. President, if I may if I may suggest uh by unanimous consent we can suspend our rules and I would like to think that would be the better route uh in terms of allowing uh hearings to be conducted by uh former committee chairpersons uh and former uh members until Monday [clears throat] as you as uh the uh Senate President earlier mentioned that uh you would have disposed of the issue by Sunday.

[00:26:03]>> Yes, I am overwhelmed by the number of brilliant minds and former Senate Presidents. So, with your permission to answer the question, former Senator Senate President Escudero will will give.

[00:26:14]>> Yes, Mr. President, to lend some clarity to the issue at hand, I I would like to read and spread onto the record section 19 of our own rules. The chairman and the members of the permanent committee shall commence in the exercise of their duties upon their election. they shall cease when their successors shall have been elected or designated. So my understanding given the plain meaning of this rule is that um the chairman although they were their positions were respectively declared vacant to avoid avoid shall continue until their successors shall have been designated andor elected. My understanding further is that should there be any bicam that needs to be done or [clears throat] finished within this week until their successor shall have been elected then it should proceed so as not to cause any undue um delay without need of suspending the rules. Mr. President I submit Mr. President.

[00:27:08]>> Yes. Again Mr. President it's uh you know it's a uh the point well what we the motion uh yesterday was to declare the positions vacant.

[00:27:23]>> So there is no chair there is no vice chair there are no members. So how can a committee uh convene or continue with its uh proceedings when there are no there is no chairman there are no members members and chairpersons and vice chairpersons are elected >> as a matter of courtesy and tradition >> and that's why >> instead of just uh saying the name and then uh uh replacing the chairman uh which happens in cert certain instances with the permission of the two individuals. Uh when there is a leadership change, usually there's a question of the chairmanships. So there's sometimes a a motion to declare all positions vacant. But that is the brilliance of the rules. The rule is very clear. The chairman and the members of the permanent committee shall commence in the exercise of their election of their duties and they shall cease when their successor have been elected or designated. So out of prudence usually in controversial hearings and in uh new bills etc. So for example if the divorce bill is very uh controversial and let's say senator villaina was hearing it and then he was replaced usually he will not call another hearing out of prudence and respect for the body. But let's say he was uh hearing something about nutrition that everyone uh accepts. He he would probably continue his hearing. But actually this will all soon be mutin academic because uh probably by tomorrow and Monday we will start and finish reading all of the chairmanships. And you usually you uh have to have three-day notice. So even if you want to have a hearing Monday or Tuesday, you have to have the notice tomorrow. So by Monday we'll have all of this settled. I just mentioned it because Senator Pia reminded me about her hearing and then uh I read some comments about some important matters uh and and the cancellation. No. So it was really meant to address the present situation maybe today, tomorrow and uh Friday if everyone has the pleasure of hearing uh on Friday which includes uh Senator Baka important voucher program. No.

[00:29:46]>> Uh well Mr. President, if I may suggest so that we can uh dispense with this is let's just suspend the rules with unanimous consent with understanding that this is to be uh a suspension until Monday when the matter has been resolved. election of new >> the problem if if you suspend the rule you'll suspend section 19 then it will be worse because there will be no >> well Mr. Mr. President, that the trouble also with section 19 is that it assumes there are there is a chairperson and a vice chairperson and members. We already declared all positions vacant. There are no there are no chairpersons today.

[00:30:23]There are no vice chairpersons today.

[00:30:25]There are no members of of all these committees today. So, so when you say they shall cease, they meaning as chairperson, as vice chairperson and as members. But that's not the case. We declared all positions vacant.

[00:30:41]>> Yes. And it is vacant but they can continue until their successors have been elected. Uh it is taught in law school that when there are rules you have to interpret it in a logical way that makes it work. So there will be no uh reason for this rule if in fact we did not remove chairman because then the rule would simply be uh the vice chairman would take over the senior member etc. So actually this rule takes care of any situation including for example if three senators have resigned and have joined the executive uh department and then every member from that committee resigned then they they will continue to be vice chairman and committee members. If it's your pleasure senator and uh I sort of see your point but I see the the logic of Senator we can refer to the committee on rules.

[00:31:38]>> Yes. Uh I think that would be better Mr. uh Mr. president so that we can get a a a a clear uh definition or this or um uh a a clear ruling or a recommended ruling from the committee on rules and legal interpretation of this particular uh rule.

[00:31:58]>> Thank you for bringing that up. No, thank you. And at least we'll clear it up so that those who have important hearings will not need to cancel it.

[00:32:05]>> Well, just just on that point, Mr. President, the reason why I'm I'm I'm raising this is because we do have committee reports that we are ready to submit >> and so we we we would like to be clear as to can we still submit this committee reports uh today, tomorrow uh can we still sponsor >> uh committee reports that have been submitted uh tomorrow or maybe even Monday? uh because we do have uh committee reports that we can sponsor.

[00:32:38]So pre preliminarily if you follow the rule section 19 you can but prudence usually uh on controversial bills they do not because the ratio between minority and majority also changes and sometimes the alignments are ideological sometimes the alignments are political sometimes the bill are the same. So it really depends.

[00:33:05]No, >> but uh >> again the new majority will endeavor to finish the reorganization latest uh Monday. No.

[00:33:15]>> Okay. Thank you, Mr. President. Just just for the record, >> the comments are on the record and uh referred to the committee on rules.

[00:33:21]>> Yes, Mr. President. And just for the record, uh we were supposed to sponsor two measures on uh uh under the as chairman of the committee on justice on the citizenships of two uh the principal sponsor uh Senator Bongo and Senator Piaano.

[00:33:37]>> Are they here today?

[00:33:39]>> Uh they were here yesterday, but I want to know if we can schedule it. Yes.

[00:33:42]>> Uh tomorrow.

[00:33:43]>> Majority leader, >> Mr. President, >> may I request that you discuss with Senator Pangalin and the two sponsors.

[00:33:49]Maybe we can accommodate tomorrow >> because there is a time timeline as to the >> Okay. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you. We will be ready tomorrow. Thank you, Mr. President.

[00:34:02]>> We'll do that, Mr. President. And I hope uh the uh real majority leader will be elected soon, Mr. President. Mr. President, at this juncture and just to uh >> You mean the permanent colleagues >> permanent permanent majority leader >> colleagues? uh the opportunity to vote on third reading. Mr. President, may I move respectfully move to consider on third reading of uh of bills. Uh Mr. President, the uh printed copies of these bills were electronically distributed to the members on May 8, 2026 in compliance with the 3-day rule in the constitution. And so with that, Mr. President, I move to approve on third and final reading Senate Bill number 1894. this bill enhancing the universal access to quality tertiary education act. So move Mr. President.

[00:34:54]>> Any objection?

[00:34:56]There being none, consideration of Senate Bill number 1894 on third reading is in order.

[00:35:03]The Senate Secretary is directed to read the title of the bill and proceed with the voting.

[00:35:11]Senate bill number 1894, an act enhancing the universal access to quality tertiary education act amending for the purpose of public act number 10931.

[00:35:20]Roll call of members. Senator Aino, >> Senator Kayanop Pia, Senator Dear Rosa, Senator Eersito, Senator Escuderero, Senator Estrada, Senator Gatalyan, Senator Go, Senator Hontiveros, Senator Laxon, Senator Lapid, Senator Legarda, Senator Maruetta, Senator Marcos, Senator Padilia, Senator Senator Pangilinan, Senator Sto, >> Senator Tul for Irwin, Senator Tulafi, Senator Villain Neva, Senator Var Camille, Senator Var Mark, Senator Subiri, >> Senate President Ken Kitano Alan.

[00:36:10]with 21 affirmative votes, zero negative vote, zero abstension. Senate bill number 1894 is approved on third reading.

[00:36:23]>> Thank you, Mr. President. We congratulate the uh authors, especially the chairperson of the uh Senate Committee on Higher and Technical Education, our Senate President Prom, Senator Lauren Legarda.

[00:36:33]>> Those who want to be co-sponsors can uh just manifest to the majority leader.

[00:36:38]>> Yeah. uh I think uh everyone Mr. President >> everyone who's present is already a >> want wanted to be part of this measure >> and when it's unanimous even those who are not sitting down there are included [laughter] so far no those physically present and voted >> just physically present >> upon clarification of senator Lux >> that's a good clarification >> and uh that is very clear right now Mr. President, I move that we approve on third reading Senate bill number 1966 this bill. This uh is the bill institutionalizing the assistance to individuals in crisis situation. I so move, Mr. President.

[00:37:20]>> Any objection, there being none, consideration of Senate Bill number 1966 on third reading is in order. The Senate Secretary is directed to read the title of the bill and proceed with the voting.

[00:37:35]Senate bill number 1966, an action utilizing the assistance to individuals in crisis situations program of the department of social welfare and development providing penalties for federalation of certain unlawful acts in appropriating fun. Roll call of members.

[00:37:50]Senator Aino, Senator Kitano Pia, Senator Dear Rosa, Senator Eherito, Senator Escudero, Senator Estrada, Senator Gatalyan, Senator Go, Senator Hontiveros, Senator Laxon, Senator Lapid, Senator Legarda, Senator Marcoa, Senator Marcos, Senator Padilia, Senator Pangilinan, Senator Sto, >> Senator Tulfo Irwin, Senator Tulfo Rafi, Senator Villain Neva, Senator Var Camille, Senator Var Mark, Senator Subiri, >> Senate President Kayano Alan.

[00:38:41]>> With 22 affirmative votes, zero negative vote, zero abstension, Senate bill number 1966 is approved on third reading.

[00:38:50]Thank you, Mr. President. We'd like to congratulate all the authors led by uh the chairperson of the committee, Senator uh Irwin Tulfo. Mr. President, uh the good gentleman is seeking the floor. May may may >> senator within before we recognize Senator Irwin Tulfo, there is a uh uh yeah, just a point of clarification.

[00:39:13]>> There's a point of clarification. Maybe acknowledge I would just like to be uh clarified, Mr. President in what capacity is Senator Pangalinan sponsoring his comm a committee report tomorrow?

[00:39:25]>> I have a suggestion along that line maybe we can the body can designate him as >> no in holdover capacity >> so he can be you know officially capacitated.

[00:39:38]>> Good suggestion uh just to align in pursuant with section 19.

[00:39:42]>> Thank you Mr. President.

[00:39:43]>> Thank you. So if there are no objections, thank you for the suggestion. Senator Lanas, >> Senator Win Tulfo.

[00:39:53]>> Thank you. Uh Mr. President, a quick manifestation. Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, as your outgoing chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development. I wish to place on record my profound gratitude and deep appreciation. As this August chamber approves on third reading Senate bill number 1966 under committee report number 46 entitled the assistance to individuals in crisis situation or AIX act. This legislation goes beyond merely institutionalizing assistance. It institutionalizes the spirit of malasakit in public service. More importantly, it affirms our collective duty as a public servant to ensure that in times of hardship and uncertainty, government responds not with indifference, but with urgency, compassion, and decisive action for the welfare of every Filipino.

[00:40:57]Mr. Mr. President, allow me to extend my sincerest gratitude to all the authors who stood behind this measure. Senator Marcus, Senator Christopher Bongo, Senator Jingo Estrada, to Senator Joel Villaina who conveyed his intention to be made co-author of this significant bill. Thank you, Madam and sir. Your support reflects our shared belief that public service has always put people first.

[00:41:27]The significance of the IS program becomes even more evident during periods of national and global uncertainty when ordinary Filipinos are most vulnerable to the effects of economic disruption.

[00:41:49]Amid the recent tensions involving Iran and resulting volatility in global oil prices, assistance mechanism under IK program became an important source of relief for many Filipinos, particularly in transport drivers and operators who board the heavy burden of rising fuel costs through timely emergency assistance and fuel. subsidy interventions. Our government was able to provide much neededed relief and help lighten the daily burden of those who despite rising cost and personal sacrifices continue to keep our communities connected, our economy moving forward.

[00:42:47]To the committee's technical working groups, partner agencies, and hardworking personnel behind this legislation, we thank you for transforming compassion into concrete action. To my distinguished colleagues, may we continue to craft laws that are not only responsive but humane. law that recognizes that governance is not merely about programs and budgets, but about people, dignity, and hope.

[00:43:29]Again, Mr. President, to all the authors and supporters of the Aix Act, thank you for your unity, compassion, unwavering commitment to the Filipino people. We stand united no matter what political colors we are. We have there is no crisis too great and we cannot overcome both in the majority minority.

[00:43:55]Thank you and good afternoon. The chair recognizes the work of the good senator in social justice and social welfare. Uh very well taken on uh manifestation except the part that he said he will be leaving the committee. We're not yet that sure as we recognize your work in that committee. Thank you for your manifestation.

[00:44:17]>> Senator, Mr. President. Uh next to uh uh explain uh her vote especially on uh Senate Bill number 1894 is the distinguished lady from Antique, the uh chairperson of the Senate Committee on Higher and Technical Education, Senator Lauren Lagard. I move that she be recognized. Mr. President, >> Mr. President, esteemed colleagues, I would like to thank all our colleagues in um their in the unanimous vote on the free tertiary education amendments. And we know that this measure strengthens RA 10931 and ensures the promise of free and equitable tertiary education that it truly reaches the poorest Filipino families. Edcom 2 revealed stark gaps in the implementation of student assistance programs. Many of our most vulnerable learners continue to struggle with the rising cost of transportation, food, housing, and school requirements despite existing support mechanisms.

[00:45:20]This bill ensures that limited government resources are directed first to those who need the most, aligns allocation strictly with household income, guarantees timely inflation adjusted support, and demands accountability for the use of public funds.

[00:45:49]graduation.

[00:45:51]This measure is for our students, especially the poorest who now know that the government stands behind their dreams.

[00:46:04]I would like to thank my fellow EDCOM two commissioners, Senator Bam Aino, Senator Joel Villanovva, Senator Sherwin Gachalan, Senator Alan Peter Cayatano, now Senate President, as well as Senator Pia Cayatano, Senator Christopher Lon Go, Senator Francis Escodero, Senator Jingo Eerto Estrada, Senator Risa, Senator JV Eerito, Senator Rafi Tulfo, Senator Robin Padilia, and Senator Kiko Pangilinan for your steadfast support. I express my deep gratitude to all who joined in advancing this measure. And just uh to take note that the House of Representatives had already passed this measure on third reading. Thank you, Mr. President.

[00:46:51]>> Thank you, Mr. President. Before I ask for this representation's recognition, Mr. President, our dear colleague, Senator Risa is seeking the floor. May I move that she be recognized, Mr. President?

[00:47:02]>> Yeah, Senator Antivera is recognized and we thank Senator Larda for her explanation of the vote. Mr. President, uh, inquiry, Mr. President, in line uh, action body regarding Senator Pangilinan on the suggestion of Senator Lakon. Uh, two uh, inquiries. Mr. President, uh, for clarity, Mr. President this representation is the former chair of the Senate Committee uh on women and also former chair of the Senate Committee on Health conversation committee hearings uh for bills that are ready for amendments on the floor Mr. President. So inquiry po would I still be allowed to introduce the amendments as former chair in relation po to the action of the body on hold over capacity of Senator Pangalinan uh in his former committee. Mr. President as to introducing uh individual amendments as a senator, of course, that's always your right, but as to sponsoring the majority leader and myself, we'll be discussing all depending uh bills on the floor uh when we go in caucus right after this and we hope to ask for a all member caucus by tomorrow uh to discuss that but also to discuss uh the articles of impeachment.

[00:48:27]>> Salamat, Mr. president and the representation anticipates the uh response uh of the Senate President and the majority leader. Just to add one detail on the anti-hosp uh detention bill uh particular status, Mr. President amendments and then uh pending the decision of the body close on second reading. Uh second and last inquiry for now, Mr. President [snorts] uh regarding the bills that are for interpolation uh because lastly this representation is also former chair of the Senate committee on uh uh electoral reforms uh bills Mr. President like the party list reform the anti-political dynasty bill and then also uh within the committee on health the UHC medical assistance program and the healthc care uh proxy act. So again Mr. President, should this representation continue to sponsor and defend them on the floor or is it correct that uh the leadership ch uh change has prevented this? Mr. President, >> same answer. And to be completely honest, because Senator Villain Noeva has not accepted the position of a majority floor leader, so I cannot assign him to go to the former chairpersons to get their pleasure yet because he has only agreed to be acting floor leader. But uh after our caucus this afternoon, tomorrow, we should have a uh regular not real a a uh um a a uh permanent majority leader at least uh until the body uh would like to pick someone else.

[00:50:12]Uh Mr. President, and I also like to the chair would like to thank you for your work on the committee on health.

[00:50:17]>> Thank you, Mr. President. And the this representation knows that the Senate President is also keenly aware stakeholders partners including children's rights advocates health workers political reform advocates among others. Mr. President Salam po just for the answer regarding uh your query as far as the rules are concerned because the spon the author of the bill can also sponsor a member of the committee can also sponsor and the former chair is a member of the committee so technically you can so it's just a matter of the majority uh leader and the new majority would like that on the floor uh at the moment and as again I thank you I thank Senator Pia Senator uh Lauren Senator Bongo on your work on the committee on health. I was informed recently that's two weeks ago flu vaccines and northern.

[00:51:39]So we really need the department of health to shape up. No, and your your work uh during your term as chairman of the committee on health is is uh appreciated. Thank you, >> Mr. President.

[00:51:51]>> Mr. President, uh Senator Mark Villar is also seeking the floor to explain his vote. I move that he be recognized, Mr. President.

[00:51:57]>> Senator Mark Villar is recognized.

[00:51:59]>> Mr. President, allow allow me to explain my yes vote and my unyielding support for Senate Bill Number 1894 or the act enhancing the universal access to quality tertiary education act. Mr. President, Republic Act number 10931 or the universal access to quality tertiary education act was enacted to provide the adequate to provide adequate funding and similar mechanisms to increase the participation rate among all socioeconomic classes in tertiary education. While the law provides for free tuition, it does not cover the incidental expenses of studying and going to school in college. Mr. President, Mr. President, for.

[00:53:29]Mr. President, this bill will narrow the gap between the objectives of the free tertiary education law and the glaring realities on the ground faced by the underprivileged and marginalized.

[00:53:41]Again, I would like to thank the distinguished lady from Antique, Senator Lauren Legarda for shephering this bill and of course, Senator Bam Aino for in champ initially champion championing this measure in these very halls with the indulgence of the good sponsor again. You mentioned it earlier, but I just like to re reiterate that I would also like to be made a co-author of this bill. Thank you, Mr. President.

[00:54:05]>> Thank you.

[00:54:06]>> Thank you very much.

[00:54:07]>> May I be allowed, Mr. President just to give a very short explanation on this particular measure because uh this is also our pet bill. Mr. President, >> if you accept the position of majority leader, then you can proceed.

[00:54:18]>> Thank you for being considerate, Mr. President. Uh Mr. President, we vote yes on the proposed amendments to the universal access to uh quality tertiary education act. When we enacted, Mr. President, this uh RA 10931 during the uh 17 Congress. Um we opened the doors of uh higher education to millions of young Filipinos. But as the findings of Edcomu have shown, access alone is not enough. Many students continue to face learning gaps, financial pressures, and other barriers that prevent them from uh completing their education. Now, through the work of Edgum Tuper, particularly Mr. President in our role as uh chairperson of the uh standing committee on technical vocational education and training and lifelong learning. We have seen the urgent need to strengthen support systems for learners and uh make our education system more responsive to uh present realities. These amendments move us closer to uh that goal by improving the delivery and targeting of tertiary education support and ensuring that more students are not able to enter school but also complete their education successfully.

[00:55:49]Senator Lauren Legarda for sponsoring and uh defending this measure and our co-authors. Uh for these reasons, Mr. President and as author and co-sponsor of this measure, we reiterate our yes vote and may God bless us all. Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Ris is seeking the floor. I move that she be recognized.

[00:56:11]Thank you majority leader for your explanation of vote. Senator Risa Tuveras [clears throat] po Mr. President Mr. President I vote yes uh to the enhancing the universal access to quality tertiary education act. The free higher education law transformed millions of lives. But delays in subsidies and funding gaps have failed many students and strained our SU's and LUC's.

[00:56:42]Since 2022, my office has received complaints from students whose tertiary education subsidy uh arrived late or never arrived at all.

[00:56:53]Some were forced to stop schooling because they could no longer afford to stay enrolled.

[00:57:04]This measure strengthens accountability.

[00:57:07]It requires UNIFIFAS to improve and speed up subsidy dispersement and establishes an accessible grievance mechanism so students can report problems and seek redress.

[00:57:32]Solo parents at persons with disabilities.

[00:57:38]State universities and colleges.

[00:57:42]Free higher education.

[00:57:59]deficiencies.

[00:58:05]Universal access to education.

[00:58:14]I vote yes, Mr. President.

[00:58:18]>> Thank you, Senator.

[00:58:21]>> You want to speak?

[00:58:23]>> You want to you want to speak? Suspend.

[00:58:25]Uh, Mr. President, Senator Legarda is uh seeking the floor. I move that she be recognized. Mr. President, >> the Senate President Proemporary Senator Legarda is recognized.

[00:58:37]>> Thank you, Mr. President. Distinguished colleagues, Foreman issuances.

[00:59:23]privacy safeguards assistance, health assistance programs, Mr. President Senator Winfitization of the AX program. Thank you, Mr. President.

[01:00:35]>> Thank you, Senator Lagarda.

[01:00:36]>> Mr. that Senator Bongo wishes to uh explain his vote. I would I move that he be recognized. Mr. President, >> the chair recognizes Senator Bongo.

[01:00:50]>> Mr. President, I rise to explain my yes vote on Senate Bill 1894, a measure that seeks to amend Republic Act number 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education.

[01:01:07]expanded free tertiary education.

[01:01:12]An act enhancing the universal access to quality tertiary education act amending for the purpose republic act number 1031 10931.

[01:01:25]I have been a strong advocate for education.

[01:01:42]2017.

[01:01:44]Former President Rodrigo Number 1093, State Universities and Colleges.

[01:02:01]We thank the champions of this law in the 17th Congress headed by the principal sponsor Senator B Machino who fought it to make it possible. Senator Migiri, then Senate President, Senator Lon, Senator, Senator Neton, Senator Kiko, Pangan, Senator, Gachalan, Senator Estrada, and Sen Senator JBO, Senator Liarda, Senator Pia during the 17th Congress.

[01:02:44]But during cabinet deliberations, finance managers, they recommended uh president.

[01:03:01]Concerns were raised by economic managers regarding its fiscal impact.

[01:03:06]But we stood firm in our belief that free education is an investment in the future of our nation.

[01:03:15]chairman.

[01:03:20]special assistant to to the president last minute and we are grateful executive department and we are grateful to former president finally free education.

[01:04:06]Finally, the rest is history.

[01:04:10]Even with the Republic Act 10931 in place, we recognize many challenges in accessing education.

[01:04:21]We thank the sponsor, Senator Lauren Legarda, for championing this uh measure. Mr. President, Senator Allan Congress, I'm sure Secretary of Foreign Affairs I don't know during that time but [snorts] 17 education indigent patients private universities colleges and universities.

[01:05:23]Private higher education institutions For these reasons, I am putting on record my yes vote for the passage of this very important education measure.

[01:05:43]Salamat, Mr. President, and likewise as one of the authors of Senate bill number 1966, which seeks to institutionalize the assistance to individual in crisis situations DSWD. I want to manifest my yes vote to the measure.

[01:06:05]I have seen families who have lost everything, homes, livelihoods, and in some cases hope.

[01:06:28]By institutionalizing We guarantee its continuity and enhance its its ability to adapt and respond to the growing needs of our communities.

[01:07:00]We congratulate and thank the sponsor Senator Irwin Tulfo for uh prioritizing this measure with this bill. We affirm to the Filipino people that in times of crisis, the government stands ready to extend a helping hand.

[01:07:15]Mr. President, >> thank you Senator Bongo. Just on your point and for the information of the public who is uh who have a keen eye on the Senate actually manda carry over you amendment Senator Lson s 2026 budget you prohibition on political involvement in the distribution of cash and other forms of financial assistance is in section 18 So section 19 nan prohibition on the display and or a fixture of the name image likeness of public officials. So suggest Senator Lonary 2026 budget section 20 unlawful acts. Unfortunately on section 18 and 19 wang penal clause section 20 my penal clause uh under section my penalties under section 21 that's why if you noticed Iran Israel US waros streamers posters tarpolines distribution.

[01:08:44]The spirit of the law uh criminal penalties is uh to uh maybe I can use the word partisan Mr. President, Senator Chis Escodero, Senator Angara, Senator Grace, and Senator Nancy Bai, of course, headed by our finance then finance uh chair, Senator Lauren Legarda, Senator Piaan Pong, Free Tertiary Education, Salamato, Mr. President.

[01:09:22]>> Thank you, Senator Bongo.

[01:09:26]Mr. President, before we uh recognize Senator Marcoa to explain his vote, I think uh the uh chairperson of the committee, Senator uh Irwin Tulfo would just like to uh put into the record some of the matters that is uh uh part of what uh has been discussed on the floor.

[01:09:43]Uh Senator, >> Senator Tulfo has both the legislative uh acumen, but also he served in as secretary, so he knows the practical side of all of this. Thank you, Senator Tulf.

[01:09:54]>> Mr. President, our new majority floor leader.

[01:10:05]Section 18 for that reminder. Mr. President, I move that we recognize Senator uh Rodante Marleta for his explanation of votes.

[01:10:27]>> So move, Mr. President >> and just appoint Senator Tulfo and it can be administrative public officials or it may be grounds for disqualification if they are a candidate. So thank you for your work, Senator Tulfo.

[01:10:41]Senator Marcoa, you are recognized.

[01:10:44]>> Thank you Mr. President. Mr. President, I voted yes.

[01:10:52]in relation to Senate Bill 1966.

[01:10:58]In doing so, uh, Mr. President, I'm also conscious of the fact that I hope we will find a more equitable way of, uh, intervention, socioeconomic intervention to the marginalized and the poorest of the poor.

[01:11:22]while it serves as one of the interventions people in crisis situation. Mr. President inclusive errors exclusive errors and I'm also conscious of the fact Mr. president that this representation has filed Senate bill number 63 raising the coverage of the lifeline rate subsidy programs for marginalized households.

[01:12:04]Mr. President, this is more equitable and it is a method by which our poorest of the poor will be targeted.

[01:12:23]About 5 million poor families ranging between 25 to 27 million poor Filipinos.

[01:12:34]Lifeline rate Mr. President Ecow per month energy committee 50 kilowatt per hour per month. Mr. President electricator for example very basic that's why Mr. President 200 kilowatt hours per months households the monetary value of 200 kilwatt hours per month let's say is 2500 pesos but this is regular this is consistent targeted households Mr. President with the hope that later on we will find a better much better more equitable methodology to target the needy uh parts of our population. Salamat po Mr. President The chair agrees with you, Senator Marcetta. There's a balance between a yuda uh the financing or capitalization of uh micro, small, medium uh enterprise uh between the social interventions to the poorest of the poor. We should also look at for example uh free internet for the poorest of the poor.

[01:15:11]Yung bata. Thank you for your interventions. Senator Marcoa.

[01:15:14]>> Yes, Mr. President. Mr. President, the gentleman from uh Noveia in Belell region. Senator Robin Hood Padilia is seeking the floor. I move that he be recognized. Mr. President, >> you're recognized. Brother Robin asalam allayikum and thank you for coming in a very beautiful barong Okay.

[01:15:41]Uh, opinion impression.

[01:16:22]Senator Dear Rosa, warrant of arrest.

[01:16:35]IC question.

[01:17:05]Senator L,000 hours criminal.

[01:17:37]Criminal.

[01:17:55]Warrant of arrest, ICC.

[01:18:12]adopted Senate resolution.

[01:18:16]Number 44 resolution expressing the sense of the Senate of the Philippines to protect all Filipinos against extra extrajudicial rendition and guarantee then a reasonable time prior to their surrender by extradition from the Philippines to seek redness from the courts and avail of legal remedies.

[01:18:57]Supreme Court mixed messages.

[01:19:14]Senator Rosa.

[01:19:26]Fore!

[01:19:35]Foreign! Foreign!

[01:19:45]foreign checkpoint.

[01:20:40]I will refer the manifestation of sen the honorable senator Robin to the padilia to the committee on rules and public order. But before that may I make uh three points of uh information for all of us. Before that, uh, an appeal, whether session hall, whether member office of the sergeant-at-arms or saas, please uh volunteer and submit your video because uh we agreed with the NBI [clears throat] that they will conduct a factf finding.

[01:21:22]The Senate will also conduct a factf finding and the NBI director promised us that uh if they exceeded if any of his agents exceeded their authority um they will be dealt with by law whether administrative or criminal charges. I'll just finish Senator Subir. So uh his report was that harass but when I showed him the video he was also surprised but of course there are many videos. So that's my first point that uh to in reaction to what you said but today shows you law. Number three, I think that is the inherent weakness of social media versus um news uh legitimate uh I will not use legitimate because everything is legitimate no matter what the platform but what I'm saying is that when people um cut interviews so for example I think senator said including self and he gave up. But if you look at my whole interview, administrate first warrant. Number two, we allow the senator to exhaust all all legal remedies.

[01:23:15]And number three, in the case of Senator Bau, it has to be a warrant issued by a Philippine judge in a Philippine court.

[01:23:24]And still he has to be given the right to exhaust all his legal remedies. And then tradition is that legal remedy by giving up which senator at senator selective amnesia part where they sought the protection of the senate surrender.

[01:23:57]Secondly, lastly, look at it from our point of view.

[01:24:23]My session, we were in session.

[01:24:33]So, but uh we we and uh Senator, Senator Pia, Senator Lauren were the voices of the institution yesterday. No, I played more of a diplomat mediator role so that we can get to that. So now that they're doing their investigation, I I hope the committee on uh rules, committee on public order, or if you refer it to the if the pleasure of the body is the committee on justice or rules instead of public order, we we'll get to it soon. But today proves that Senator Zubiri. Yes. Yes. Yes, Mr. President. Senator Senator Zubiri and then Senator Marco. Mr. President, >> very quick, Mr. President. Thank you, >> Mr. President. Very quick just to add to the discussion uh to weigh in the discussion.

[01:25:26]Yesterday's >> is I would say not just a very sad but tragic experience for OSA. I think it's I'm looking for the right word outrage.

[01:25:40]>> We're outraged. Thank you, Senate President, for helping me that we were outraged. He did not deserve that.

[01:25:54]Uh there should have been more proper restraint on the part of the enforcement agency and I commenurate to the our staff. No morale.

[01:26:04]Uh we must stand by them because these are the people that will give their lives for us if there's anything that will happen in this building and we should also be ready to give our lives for them. Mr. President, I condemn what had happened to our Osa staff and to all the rockus that they had created inside the Senate building.

[01:26:25]Mr. President, there's always been decorum when these things have been happened. It's happened before. We were together when Senator Llaya de Lima was arrested here in the Senate. There was a well yeah but he was the they served the warrant here initially and she had asked if she could be served in her home so she could go home and greet her children and say goodbye to her children so there's a proper decorum Mr. President, >> Senator, former Senate President. That's exactly what I said.

[01:26:52]>> You could have allowed him in the session hall, >> then informed either the Senate President, the Osah or the Secretary of the Senate that there's an arrest warrant. We could have suspended or discussed with you. But instead, you you wanted to nab him right before entering.

[01:27:10]No. So, there was much discussion on that, but thank you for your expression.

[01:27:14]We want to we want to tell the staff that here today that we are with them 1,000%. We are with you 1000%. And if that had happened that I was around so Mr. President may also move may I move with the permission of the body that the Senate shoulders medical expenses Mr. President may president.

[01:27:41]>> Yes Mr. President, if I may, >> if I may, with the uh indulgence of the >> Senate President Migs. Yes, >> it was um with Senator Pia Kayatano that we went to the clinic yesterday and we saw Terren Lim the OSA. I will not give the details on which hospital but he was being checked by our medical doctor and because there was supposedly a hematoma and we saw his physical condition so we asked for an ambulance uh senator pi and I and he is in a private hospital now uh uh I I'm covering his uh personally his expenses because his uh medical card in the Senate would not cover the private doctors and consultation ations uh expense the city scan and all that and um because there is a supposed uh hematoma and it's not just uh I thought there was just going to be a checkup but there was a need for a minimum of 3 days stay to check his condition because it's not as simple as that could have been dealt with in a medical clinic. Um all I can say was we were shocked. Uh Senator Pia would probably be able to uh explain this. I could not explain uh how that actually could happen at the gates of the Senate. Uh it's something you see in the movies. Uh it's shocking. Um when Senator said I don't think you meant that literally.

[01:29:12]You meant it figuratively to show your outrage to show Yes. No, I would like to because we're not um when I asked also uh the other OSA this morning, why did you not come to his rescue? Because the video that Senator Pia showed me was uh Terren Lim on the ground being mowled by big burly men and people watching him. So I asked um I cannot give it the details for a fact. The spot report will explain why they told me what happened. I cannot put it on record unless I have firsthand knowledge but it shocked me when the OSA gave me the information today. I don't want to say it because I don't have firsthand knowledge. The spot report will explain. All I can say is that on the humanitarian side Uh we brought him through ambulance and my staff uh I thank her. I have a caregiver um nurse bash staff midnight asawa and then maybe senator pia can explain that further. Thank you Mr. President. Mr. President Senator former Senate President.

[01:30:31]>> Thank you Mr. President. May I be allowed to uh uh laid to rest this particular issue as far as I'm concerned because I have been mentioned in media by members of the Senate that let the records well speak for itself.

[01:31:02]Mr. President, early in the morning, an NBI representative came to see me and told me they have a warrant of arrest for Senator Delar Rosa. I said simply I said coordinate with Osah.

[01:31:21]As simple as that. Why?

[01:31:23]I'm not I don't I didn't realize that he was coming. I didn't know that he was being going to be there in the afternoon. I just thought it was a simple information giving given the Senate President that a member of the Senate was being uh issued a war.

[01:31:41]It was simple as that. Yeah.

[01:31:46]Little did I know that, you know, Senator Dear Rosa after seven months of not being here will suddenly come with you know. So that let put that to rest.

[01:32:11]You know, if I had known that he was coming, if you informed me that he was coming, I would have had a different perspective.

[01:32:19]You know, like what happened with the CDG when they issued a subpoena to to Senator Delar Rosa's office simply is Mr. President uh I will not be a remiss of uh anything and definitely I will not be guilty of uh uh obstruction of justice. uh like for example in the case of Senator Farees, I was majority leader and when he found he was he was uh hold up in his office for I think about one two days, three days but when he was issued and he showed he was showed the the warrant of arrest in the case of Senator Dimma when the warrant came and she was Oh, by the way, when I said coordinate with this OSA, they know the rules.

[01:33:34]Exact wording, Mr. President. For the record, so that we can put this to rest already.

[01:33:43]Yeah, for clarity, former Senate President one, I uh I asking for a report, but I remember Senator Dimma stayed in her room for a few days before that. No. So, the the way that they're saying that uh uh surrendered right away is uh she was allowed to exhaust remedy. Now, as Senator Pia, Senator Lauren, Senator Uh, I >> Mark Mark >> Mark Villar were in the room with me. It was the NBA director who said They're my just assuming that doesn't make it less uh problematic. That means you have to to stop. No. So, Senator Pia, >> you you were there. So, please feel free to speak. For full disclosure, I asked him after it was established NBI director instructions and then so that's that's what is a logical conclusion.

[01:35:37]session because I asked what is your objective serve warrant? Yes.

[01:35:47]And basically the answer seems to be yes I he did say yes but >> and Major General Sante said that at 2 p.m. the one of arrest was shown to former Senate President in the presence of undersigned but copies were not allowed to be distributed. Uh but consistent with the Senate President said earlier this morning, NBI chief attorney Dongalo paid a call to the undersign to coordinate an arrest order uh as per agreement that supposedly arrest should be affected when the warrant of arrest is presented as guidance of the former said President Vicenteoto on or about 2 p.m. the warrant of arrest was shown to the former Senate President the president under signed but copies were not allowed. So in the report certain sergeant at arms the arrest was coordinated not just the arrest warrant that's why maybe the media this was submitted uh during the session >> yes but I I clarified that I do not believe that the actual manner so there are two issues no was it coordinated which they're saying that they're disputing that secondly the manner in which they uh carried out the order senator >> Mr. President, just to put on record, the parliamentary status is that Senator Padilia made a uh manifestation and he is about to be uh interpolated uh by Senator Marcoa. And so we thank uh the gentleman for uh allowing our colleagues to uh interject. But before we we we we say something, Mr. President, I just wanted to add to what our colleagues mentioned for the Senate Institution. Mr. President Mr. president that we are all out in defending them. Mr. President, Mr. President, Mr. President Migsenator JBenator Mr. President Mr. President to be part of Mr. President Mr. President Mr. Presidental Mr. Mr. President, what we can do because Mr. President to file cases against these people, Mr. President. Uh, thank you, Mr. President.

[01:38:54]And, uh, may we now recognize Senator Rodante Marleta for his uh, interpolation. Thank you, Mr. President.

[01:39:00]Thank you. May May I just state Senator Padilia? So, all of this is preliminary.

[01:39:05]an investigation is going on administratively, but you I urge the committee on uh rules to take charge uh so that we can get all of the facts because apparently uh even with just 24 senators, history repeats itself.

[01:39:23]I mean there's been several senators arrested attempted to be done uh here and that's historical even during the first parliament.

[01:39:34]harass or legitimate. So anyway, thank you for bringing it up and you have the floor, Senator Padil, Commission on Human Rights, Senator Rosa for Senator Senator Limator.

[01:40:29]Senator Senator Senator Rodrigo.

[01:41:24]Point of order, Mr. Point of order.

[01:41:26]>> Point of order. Mr. >> We were going to >> point of order recognize Senator Mleta, but this is a point of order. So, we recognize Senator.

[01:41:32]>> Yes, Mr. President. Uh my understanding is a committee was this matter was already referred to the committee on rules and uh any all such manifestation should have been referred to the committee on rules.

[01:41:44]>> Senator Palinan uh Senator Lon gave several privilege speech even if the matter was already referred to the committee report. I understand as a matter of tradition. I understand of arrest.

[01:42:06]>> I understand Mr. President and therefore I'm appealing that perhaps this matter should be tackled in the committee rather than in this uh in plenary so that we can uh address other concerns.

[01:42:17]Mr. President And for the record, Mr. I still have the floor.

[01:42:24]>> And for the record, Mr. President, we did we voted against resolution number 44. So to say that uh that uh we have this resolution, yes, but there are senators who voted against it. And therefore uh it is not necessarily uh our agreement with the points being raised by the good senator uh from Kamarin's uh north.

[01:42:49]>> For for the record, Senator Padilia did mention a while ago that he doesn't take it against and he acknowledges that some senators voted against it and it's on the record. Uh having said that the appeal is noted but I just like to mention that we usually give each other leeway depending on the importance of the matter and the threat to Senator Batau is live. There's been no official communication that he is free until a Philippine court uh uh issues a warrant of arrest. No. So I ask the patience of each member but acknowledge the the uh statement and the uh interpretation the proper interpretation of the rules by Senator Pangalina. So >> can we ask Senator Marca Mr. President?

[01:43:35]>> Yes Senator Marleta you're now waiting for quite a while.

[01:43:41]Mr. President [laughter] of order.

[01:44:12]Mr. President Mr. President Assembly for executive legislative judiciary.

[01:45:09]Mr. President Senator Mr. President, >> please proceed unless you want to postpone that till tomorrow. [laughter] >> Mr. President, your honor, issues.

[01:46:20]Sir, Senator Mr. President President Senator adopted resolution number 44.

[01:47:43]Criminal Your honor, Mr. SP NBI warrant arrest warrant President, your honor, NBI director warrant of arrest communication between the ICC and the interpol counterpart.

[01:49:26]PCT PCTC PCTC President your honor president.

[01:50:17]Yes.

[01:50:19]So number one, uh, Senator Maruleta, I apologize to you. You were present and in fact you made very good points to the NBI director. Number two, Tama, he promised to officially communicate uh the the warrant and I told him he is welcome to serve the warrant. The issue is the actual arrest. So I ask my staff as to the my office to our secretariat may not receive from the NBI.

[01:50:51]So yeah, Mr. President, your honor, Mr. President of arrest allegedly.

[01:51:30]warranted in adopt. Resolution number 44, obstruction of justice.

[01:52:13]of the Republic of the Philippines.

[01:52:16]United Nations 79th session of the UN General Assembly 79 session of the UN General Assembly.

[01:52:46]scope and application of the principle of universal jurisdiction.

[01:52:52]Mr. president on October 16, 2024 permanent member United Nation and application of universal jurisdiction.

[01:53:18]Mr. President, your honor, the general rule is that jurisdiction is territorial.

[01:53:32]Universal jurisdiction is an exception grounded on the need to preserve international order.

[01:53:46]Mr. President section 17 Republic Act number 9551 permanent mission section 17 of RA number 9851 specifically provides for the Philippine jurisdiction over persons whether military or civilian suspected or or accused of a crime defined and penal penalized under Republic 1951 regardless where the crime is committed.

[01:54:23]United Nations jurisdiction article section section 18 regional trial court jurisdiction primary and exclusive jurisdiction.

[01:54:50]Mr. President, your honor President Mr. President or in accordance with the extradition laws and treaties obtaining in this country.

[01:55:32]Mr. President extradition treaty IC for the simple reason that ICC is not a country warrant of arrest jurisdiction.

[01:56:02]Mr. President, your honor, on May 10, 2026, Senator B was served a subpoena by the CG for the alleged crime of EGK.

[01:56:25]Mr. President, investigative and prosecutorial stage palang our national prosecution service is already actively on the case IC the core function of the ICC Mr. President is under the principle of complimentarity.

[01:57:12]IC allegedly Mr. President, your honor, Mr. President, your honor warrant of arrest. President process server Antonio Mr. President action speaks louder processor, sheriff or deputized officer ICC interpol Mr. President, Philippine Center for Transational Crime, Mr. President of Mr. President, your honor, bilateral immunity agreement, United States of America Bilateral immunity agreement.

[02:00:37]Ayan Mr. President, bilateral immunity agreement 13, 2003 non-surrender agreement.

[02:01:18]surrender or transfer by means international tribunal for any purpose unless such tribunal has been established. by the United Nations Security Council President Tribunal UN Security Council Mr. President agreement implication. Mr. President, UN Security Council, Senator, Filipino Mandato.

[02:03:02]Mr. President, you million Presidentipinoche.

[02:03:47]Filipino.

[02:03:59]Irony.

[02:04:19]Senator Senator Laya Lima.

[02:04:45]of arrest.

[02:04:54]Mr. President, article 59 statute Competent judicial authority state.

[02:05:25]foratoricial authoress.

[02:06:13]Stateain immediate release or provisional release.

[02:06:25]Mr. President, your honor jurisdiction.

[02:06:52]So complimentarity Mr. President Principle of complimentity exclusive and primary jurisdiction.

[02:07:39]forcess.

[02:08:13]Mr. President Mr. President Mr. President, Mr. President, your honor.

[02:09:29]Uh, Madame President.

[02:09:33]Madame President, >> Senator Padilia, please proceed. Yes.

[02:10:03]Mr. President Senator Senator Senator Excuse me.

[02:10:26]Senator the the chair is answering the question of Senator Padilia. Uh session is suspended.

[02:27:05]session is resumed.

[02:27:13]Earlier Senator Padilia was um had a floor but uh we had this discussed it and we thank Senator Padilia and Senator Pangaladinan for understanding each other. In the meantime, we would adjourn session. Um, unless there's >> If I may, m Madame President, if I m Madame President, uh, Madame President, uh, we have tackled enough for today and so may I respectfully move that we adjourn the session until 3:00 in the afternoon of Wednesday, May 13, 2026. So moved, sir, Madam President, >> is there any objection? Hearing none, session is adjourned until 3:00 Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Thank you.