Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos has filed a bill seeking to enforce a “no work, no pay” policy for members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, citing public concerns over absenteeism and accountability in Congress.
Marcos filed House Bill No. 7432, or the proposed “No Work, No Pay for Members of Congress Act,” arguing that while the principle already applies to ordinary workers, legislators continue to receive full compensation regardless of attendance or participation.
“This has led to public concern over absenteeism, lack of accountability and wastage of taxpayer funds,” Marcos said.
The measure was introduced amid criticism directed at Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who has been absent from Senate sessions since November following claims by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla that the International Criminal Court had issued an arrest order against him.
Under the proposal, lawmakers’ salaries and benefits would be directly tied to their attendance and participation in plenary sessions, committee hearings, and other official functions.
Marcos said the bill aims to institutionalize accountability and responsible governance.
He added that the measure includes safeguards recognizing valid absences such as illness or official duties, while penalizing misconduct and fraudulent claims.
The bill also requires the public disclosure of attendance records to strengthen transparency and public oversight.
Addressing concerns about constitutionality, Marcos said the 1987 Constitution allows Congress to regulate the compensation of its members, stressing that the proposal reinforces the principle of public service.