Two minority bloc senators will take over the seats of Senators Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and Joel Villanueva on the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, following approval at the Senate plenary session on Tuesday.
Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri moved to elect Senators Imee Marcos and Rodante Marcoleta as replacements for Dela Rosa and Villanueva, respectively.
“They’ll replace the members because of the conflict of interest concerning the two members for their, I think they have cases, Mr. President,” Zubiri said.
The motion was approved by Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III without objection.
Dela Rosa has been absent from Senate sessions since Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla alleged that the International Criminal Court (ICC) had issued an arrest warrant against him over his alleged role in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
Meanwhile, Villanueva is facing complaints related to alleged ghost flood control projects.
The Senate finalized the Ethics Committee’s composition on Monday after electing additional members to the panel.
The committee is tasked with handling issues concerning the conduct, rights, privileges, safety, dignity, integrity, and reputation of the Senate and its members.