The Senate may compel a member’s attendance only when a senator’s vote is considered crucial, as the chamber generally respects individual decisions on attendance, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III said.
In a Zoom interview, Sotto explained that the Senate President may order a senator to attend if the vote is deemed essential.
“Kung kailangan ang boto niya at mahalaga, puwedeng i-mando ng Senate President para pabotohin siya,” he said.
However, Sotto noted that such authority cannot be exercised if a senator is abroad, as prior approval for personal travel is no longer required.
“Inalis na ’yan. Wala kaming rule na kailangan ng permiso para umalis,” he said, adding that only official trips require a letter of authority.
Asked about the continued absence of Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Sotto said he has not compelled him to attend sessions, stressing that accountability lies with the elected official.
“Managot siya sa mga bumoto sa kanya,” he said.
Sotto added that Dela Rosa’s office remains operational, with staff submitting inputs on pending measures.
He said Senate operations have not been affected and that quorum has been maintained in plenary sessions, committee hearings and bicameral conference committees.