Hundreds of protesters from various faith-based groups, people’s organizations, and political movements gather at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City for the “White Ribbon March” on Sunday, June 28, calling for government accountability and an end to corruption. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN News
MANILA -- The Senate on Wednesday assured it will resume consideration of the pending Anti-Political Dynasty bill after the Supreme Court directed Congress to enact an Anti-Political Dynasty law.
Senator Risa Hontiveros appealed to her colleagues to continue their deliberation during their plenary session.
“Today, the Supreme Court has called on Congress to finally enact the law contemplated by the 1987 Constitution. The Court noted that almost four decades have passed without Congress defining and prohibiting political dynasties as the Constitution directs,” Hontiveros said.
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“I believe we should take this as an opportunity to finish the work that has already begun in the Senate,” she added.
Seven anti-political dynasty bills were filed, one of which is Hontiveros’. These were later on consolidated.
Hontiveros recalled that they conducted hearings on the measure when she chaired the Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation and even conducted regional consultations.
“I am ready to turn over the work we have done and to assist the present committee leadership in whatever way would be useful. If provisions need to be changed, let us change them. If colleagues have objections, let us hear them. If there are better formulations, let us consider them. Hindi naman kailangang ang bersyon ko ang masunod. Hindi rin mahalaga kung sino ang mag-sponsor,” Hontiveros said.
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Senator Jinggoy Estrada is the new chairman of the committee. But because he is detained, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said he will talk to the vice chairmen - Senators Camille Villar and Bong Go - to forward the measure.
Gatchalian also reminded that the Anti-Political Dynasty bill is a priority measure of the government.
“This chamber will push for the enactment of that measure,” Gatchalian assured.
Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senator Robinhood Padilla supported the resumption of deliberation.