By CESAR JOLITO III

Negros Occidental 1st District Representative Julio Ledesma IV has called for greater accountability among senators amid the ongoing leadership dispute and quorum crisis in the Senate, emphasizing the ethical obligations of public officials under Republic Act (RA) No. 6713, or the code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials and employees.

In a public statement posted on social media, Ledesma questioned whether the actions of lawmakers involved in the continuing Senate standoff remain consistent with the ethical principles required of elected officials.

The Senate has been embroiled in controversy following a leadership change on May 11, when Senator Alan Peter Cayetano was elected Senate president, replacing Senator Tito Sotto.

Political tensions intensified after disagreements over proposed rule changes that would allow remote voting and attendance during Senate sessions.

The dispute led to walkouts and absences from both majority and minority blocs, resulting in repeated failures to secure the 13 senators required to establish a quorum and conduct official business.

Citing RA 6713, Ledesma highlighted three principles that he said are relevant to the current situation.

First, he pointed to the principle of commitment to public interest, which requires government officials to prioritize the welfare of the public over personal or political interests. He noted that while some view strategic absences as a legitimate parliamentary tactic, others argue such actions undermine the public interest in preventing the Senate from carrying out its duties.

Ledesma also underscored the importance of professionalism and responsibility, stressing that attendance and active participation in legislative work are among the fundamental responsibilities of elected officials. He said prolonged, or unjustified absences inevitably raise questions about whether public servants are fulfilling the mandates entrusted to them by voters.

The lawmaker further cited accountability to the people, emphasizing that public office is a public trust and that citizens have the right to demand transparency and performance from their elected representatives.

“As important legislation, investigations and national concerns remain pending, the public has every right to ask whether senators are meeting their constitutional responsibilities,” Ledesma said.

He concluded by encouraging citizens to actively participate in the national discussion surrounding the Senate impasse.

“Make your voice be heard,” Ledesma urged, calling on the public to express their views on whether the conduct of lawmakers involved in the ongoing deadlock reflects the ethical and legal standards expected of public officials./CCJ, WDJ