The recent Senate hearing featuring former President Rodrigo Duterte has drawn significant attention and sparked debate over whether the Senate truly acted in line with its mandate to serve the public with transparency and integrity. Was this a well-executed pursuit of truth, or did it devolve into a politically charged event? The proceedings demand reflection not just on the actions of those involved but on the values and competencies we expect from our senators.
At its core, the Senate serves as a bastion of justice, designed to provide balanced oversight on issues that impact the public and to act as a counterbalance to the executive and judicial branches. For this mandate to be meaningful, senators must act impartially, with the highest standards of legal insight and ethical responsibility. Yet, as witnessed during this hearing, there’s a sense that political motivations are at play, casting doubt on whether the Senate acted in the best interest of the public or simply sought to score political points. This incident serves as a reminder of the pressing need for senators who are principled, competent, and genuinely knowledgeable about the law.
The recent hearing underscores a troubling trend: the emphasis on political allegiance over sound reasoning and legal knowledge. An effective Senate requires members who are not only well-versed in the legal frameworks guiding such proceedings but who are also equipped with the common sense to navigate complex, sensitive topics. When a former president is called to testify, the stakes are high, and the potential for abuse of power or unfair treatment is significant. A principled senator should understand this balance and exercise caution and restraint, ensuring that the hearing remains focused on the facts and that it upholds due process.
Unfortunately, the hearing revealed a lack of alignment with these values. Rather than a measured inquiry, it appeared more like a trial by ordeal, with senators more focused on sound bites than substance. The Filipino people deserve leaders in the Senate who see their role as defenders of truth and justice, not merely politicians on a power trip. Senators should use their platform to raise insightful questions, grounded in evidence and aimed at uncovering the truth, regardless of political affiliations or personal biases.
As the Senate moves forward, it’s essential to remember that this body is not a theater for political rivalries. It is meant to be a forum for rigorous discussion, balanced judgment, and genuine commitment to public service. The mandate is clear: protect the public, respect the law, and pursue justice for the nation. The effectiveness of the Senate hinges on having members who understand their duty as stewards of the people, not just actors in a political drama.
The Senate has a vital role in setting a standard of competency, particularly in a country grappling with profound governance challenges. Filipinos deserve senators who are more than political figures — we need them to be models of integrity and legal insight. In doing so, the Senate can reinforce the public’s trust in government institutions. But that trust hinges on having leaders who are ready to perform their duties with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
At a time when the country needs unified and credible governance, we must ask ourselves: Are the senators fulfilling their role as protectors of justice and democracy? Or are they reducing the institution to yet another platform for political grandstanding? It’s time for a renewed commitment to principled leadership in the Senate — a commitment that honors the Constitution and the people it serves.
