Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges chairperson and Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito on Wednesday emphasized that the committee will not be used as a “political tool” and is ready to carry out its mandate to hear complaints filed against members of the Senate.
Speaking during the committee’s organization meeting, Ejercito underscored the constitutional duty of the Legislature to discipline its own members.
“Our Constitution has given the Legislature the power and obligation to discipline its own ranks. We live by the principle that a public office is a public trust,” Ejercito said.
He stressed that the committee’s role is strictly institutional and not meant to serve partisan interests.
“The Committee on Ethics is a mechanism to hear complaints against members of the Senate. It is not a weapon for those who have ulterior motives and political agenda,” he added.
Ejercito assured the public that all proceedings will be conducted fairly and without bias, with due respect for the rights of those involved.
“I assure everyone here, and our people that the Committee will be fair and impartial. There will be no stones left unturned but, in the process, we will see to it that all rights will be protected,” he said.
Accepting his role as chair, Ejercito said he was ready to shoulder the responsibility entrusted to him.
“Tinatanggap ko po hindi lamang ang hamon, kundi ang responsibilidad na pamunuan ang Committee on Ethics and Privileges,” he added.
He also clarified that complaints will be addressed based on the order they were received.
“Hindi po kung ano yung mainit at gusto ng iba. So first in first out po tayo. As in any other organizations or agencies,” Ejercito said.
Ejercito noted that the committee’s draft rules are still being finalized and will undergo review by its members.