MANILA, Philippines — The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee continues its investigation into alleged flood control kickback schemes, but questions remain as to why some lawmakers implicated in the controversy have not appeared to testify.
Former committee chair Sen. Rodante Marcoleta has repeatedly asked Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson why resigned Rep. Zaldy Co has not been summoned.
Inter-Parliamentary Courtesy
Lacson explained that inter-parliamentary courtesy, a long-standing tradition, prevents one chamber of Congress from summoning members of the other. “You have been a congressman for many years. We do not invite or summon members of Congress in the same manner that they don’t invite senators to their hearings,” he said.
Marcoleta challenged this, arguing that accountability should not be blocked by tradition. “Ang pinag-uusapan natin ay problema kasangkot na po ang kinabukasan ng ating bansa. Sasabihin ba natin inter-parliamentary courtesy? Nakasulat ba sa bato yun? Absolute yun?” he asked.
Resignation and Possible Subpoena
Since Co resigned from the House of Representatives, he may now face a possible Senate subpoena. The unwritten but respected tradition of inter-parliamentary courtesy remains influential, though it is not a law. Scholars note that many rules in Congress are norms rather than statutory requirements, yet they guide legislative conduct.
Historical Context
The principle has been applied in several past cases:
- During Joseph Estrada’s jueteng scandal, the House requested the Senate to halt its probe citing courtesy.
- Sen. Bato dela Rosa refused to attend a House hearing on the drug war, citing the same tradition.
Non-legislators, such as dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and preacher Apollo Quiboloy, do not enjoy this privilege and can be arrested for ignoring congressional summonses.
Lacson’s Resignation
The debate intensified after Lacson announced his resignation as Blue Ribbon chair, citing dwindling support from colleagues. His committee uncovered testimonies linking senators, House members, and contractors to the flood control kickback schemes.
Lacson stated he would invite Rep. Martin Romualdez, former House Speaker, to testify through Speaker Bojie Dy “out of courtesy,” maintaining the tradition while continuing the probe.
Implications for Accountability
The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee faces challenges in holding lawmakers accountable while observing inter-parliamentary courtesy. Public interest in the investigation remains high, as citizens await transparency regarding the alleged flood control corruption.
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