Hontiveros Rejects Senate Videoconferencing Push

By Master JJ

Senator Risa Hontiveros rejected the proposal of allowing senators to attend Senate sessions through videoconferencing by explaining that the current situation cannot be compared to the case of former Senator Leila de Lima during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hontiveros made the statement after some members of the Senate majority supported the idea of online participation for senators who cannot physically attend sessions because of legal issues and other concerns.

She explained that the Senate allowed videoconferencing in 2021 because the country was under a national health emergency caused by COVID-19.

Hontiveros said that the Senate Rules only allow videoconferencing during a force majeure or a national emergency, which she stressed does not exist today.

She emphasized that the pandemic forced many institutions, including the Senate to adopt online systems in order to continue government operations safely.

The senator clarified that comparing the present issue to the case of former Senator Leila De Lima is misleading because the circumstances are completely different.

Hontiveros stated “Hindi pwedeng ikumpara itong ‘videoconferencing’ push ng Senate majority ngayon sa panawagan noong 2021 para payagan ang pagsali sa sesyon at committee hearings ni noo’y Senator De Lima.”

She explained that former Senator De Lima voluntarily surrendered to authorities and respected the legal process while she was detained.

Hontiveros pointed out that De Lima continued to recognize the authority of the court and complied with legal procedures during her detention.

The senator said “Pangalawa at mas importante, si Senator Leila noon ay sumuko, na-detain at rumespeto sa proseso ng batas.”

Hontiveros stressed that public officials, especially senators, should always show respect for the law and legal institutions.

She warned that the Senate should not create policies that would allow lawmakers to continue exercising power while refusing to face lawful arrest or judicial authority.

The senator said “Then and now, there should be respect for legal authority.”

She also said “The Senate should not pave the way for a member to continue to vote, influence policies and receive institutional benefits of office – despite refusing to submit to lawful arrest or judicial authority.”

The debate on videoconferencing attendance became more controversial because some lawmakers argued that technology could help senators continue performing their duties even if they are absent from the Senate building.

Supporters of the proposal claimed that online participation could make Senate work more flexible and accessible in certain situations.

Critics of the proposal, however, argued that physical attendance is important because senators are expected to face the public and actively participate in government proceedings.

Hontiveros joined the critics by saying that lawmakers have a responsibility to appear before the people and perform their duties directly.

She stated “To whom much power is given, much responsibility is expected.”

The senator also said “Kaming mga senador ay dapat pumasok, humarap sa publiko at magtrabaho.”

The issue raises questions about accountability, transparency, and the limits of technology in government work.

This explained that Senate rules were designed to preserve order and discipline within the institution.

Filipinos agreed with Hontiveros by saying that public officials should obey the law before enjoying the privileges of office.

The discussion also reminded many people about the detention of former Senator Leila De Lima who spent years in jail while facing drug-related accusations that were later dismissed by the courts.

Hontiveros has long been one of De Lima’s closest allies in the Senate and has consistently defended her against what she described as political persecution.

The senator’s latest statement reflected her belief that respect for legal institutions must remain a standard for all public officials regardless of political affiliation.

Hontiveros remained firm in her position by insisting that senators must fulfill their duties responsibly and lawfully.

Courtesy: https://youtu.be/sDwQ03DjRM0?si=2keXL1wZmv3BxxT6