Metro Manila, Philippines – Senate ethics committee chairman JV Ejercito urged Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to forgo his salary and allowances, saying this could lead to the dismissal of the ethics complaint over his prolonged absence.
In a chance interview with reporters on Wednesday, April 22, Ejercito explained that resolving the case would take time, as the committee must first address earlier complaints filed against other senators.
“Gusto man natin aksyunan, kapag sinunod mo ang proseso talagang napakatagal. Una, pang lima pa yung kaso niya. Pangalawa, wala sa rules ng Senate. So hihintayin pa natin mag resume ang plenary bago amyendahan yung rules,” Ejercito said.
[Translation: Even if we want to act on it, if we follow the process, it will really take a long time. First, his case is fifth in line. Second, it’s not covered by the Senate rules. So we still have to wait for the plenary to resume before the rules can be amended.]
He was referring to the absence of a “no work, no pay” policy in the Senate rules.
“Para nga matapos na ‘yung issue, for the peace of mind ng kampo niya, ng lahat. Ako naman apela lang para at least mas maging madali, yung— maging magaan para sa alaht, kung pwedeng i-waive na,” he added.
[Translation: So that the issue can finally be settled—for the peace of mind of his camp and everyone—I’m just appealing so it becomes easier and lighter for all, if he can waive it.]
Ejercito clarified he is not saying the ethics complaint would automatically be dismissed if dela Rosa forgoes his compensation, but said it is possible.
“It might be basis for the dismissal kasi kung talagang di nya na tatanggapin yung sweldo niya, sahod niya, allowances so wala nang basis yung complaint pero pag-uusapan pa ng committee members,” he said.
[Translation: It might serve as a basis for dismissal because if he no longer accepts his salary and allowances, then the complaint may no longer have a basis. But this will still be discussed by the committee members.]
Asked about dela Rosa’s absence itself—beyond the issue of salary— being an issue, Ejercito said this would depend on the committee’s decision.
The ethics complaint, filed by the ‘Wag Kang KuCorrupt group in February, raised several concerns, including:
- Possible violation of the duty to faithfully discharge official functions
- Misuse or abuse of public funds if compensation continues during his absence
- Erosion of public trust in public office
- Institutional delays and disruption of committee functions under his leadership
The group is seeking to withhold dela Rosa’s salary, calling it a waste of public funds.
Dela Rosa has not been seen at the Senate since November, amid reports of a possible arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court. He has been named a co-perpetrator in the crimes against humanity case filed against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
