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Advocates Philippines
Stop The Harassment: Sen. Bong Go Appeals For Unity And Respect In Legislative Processes
STATEMENT OF SEN. BONG GO
(Interview with Davao Media on Nov 23). Screengrab from Bong Go
(Interview with Davao Media on Nov 23). Screengrab from Bong Go
In an impassioned message to the public and his fellow lawmakers, Senator Bong Go called for an end to what he described as harassment of resource persons in legislative investigations. Speaking to Davao media on November 23, Go emphasized the importance of conducting hearings strictly “in aid of legislation, not persecution.”
The senator expressed his concern over the situation involving Vice President Sara Duterte’s Chief of Staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez. He shared that he had reached out to the Vice President and her team, offering his assistance in addressing the issue.
“Plano ko rin pong bumisita, at kung anuman ang maitutulong ko in my personal capacity at bilang senador, ay handa po akong tumulong,” Go said. He also highlighted the need to prioritize Lopez’s health, stating, “Unahin muna natin ang kanyang kalusugan. Karapatan naman po niya iyon.”
A Plea to Fellow Lawmakers
Go urged members of the House of Representatives to exercise caution in citing resource persons for contempt, emphasizing that many have grown fearful of participating in hearings. He reminded his peers of the true purpose of legislative inquiries.
"Ang layunin natin sa mga committee hearings ay matanong ang ating resource persons para malaman ang katotohanan. Paano tayo maka-craft ng bagong batas kung takot ang mga tao?” he questioned.
The senator also criticized what he perceives as the misuse of contempt powers, particularly in Lopez’s case. “Resource person lang siya, hindi naman siya convicted. Bakit kailangang ilagay sa Correctional Facility?” he pointed out.
An Appeal for Peace and Reconciliation
Go lamented the divisive political atmosphere, saying it detracts from the urgent work needed to address pressing issues like inflation, food shortages, and national security.
"Habang nag-aaway ang mga lider, ang nasasakripisyo dito ay ang ordinaryong Pilipino na gusto lang mabuhay nang tahimik," he said. He called on all leaders to set aside political rivalries and focus on serving the people.
The senator also made a direct appeal to Senator Imee Marcos, who he believes has the unique ability to mediate between factions. Referencing her role in uniting the Marcos and Duterte camps during the last elections, Go said, “Kung napagsama niya noon sa Uniteam, baka pwede ulit siyang maging instrument for peace and reconciliation.”
Moving Forward
As the nation faces numerous challenges, Go stressed the need for leaders to focus on their mandates. “Sayang ang oras kung puro away. Ang kailangan ng mga Pilipino ngayon ay maayos na serbisyo, hindi kontrobersya,” he said.
The senator’s plea is clear: unity, respect, and a renewed focus on public service should take precedence over political bickering. For Go, it’s not just about doing one’s job—it’s about ensuring a peaceful and productive future for every Filipino.
The senator expressed his concern over the situation involving Vice President Sara Duterte’s Chief of Staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez. He shared that he had reached out to the Vice President and her team, offering his assistance in addressing the issue.
“Plano ko rin pong bumisita, at kung anuman ang maitutulong ko in my personal capacity at bilang senador, ay handa po akong tumulong,” Go said. He also highlighted the need to prioritize Lopez’s health, stating, “Unahin muna natin ang kanyang kalusugan. Karapatan naman po niya iyon.”
A Plea to Fellow Lawmakers
Go urged members of the House of Representatives to exercise caution in citing resource persons for contempt, emphasizing that many have grown fearful of participating in hearings. He reminded his peers of the true purpose of legislative inquiries.
"Ang layunin natin sa mga committee hearings ay matanong ang ating resource persons para malaman ang katotohanan. Paano tayo maka-craft ng bagong batas kung takot ang mga tao?” he questioned.
The senator also criticized what he perceives as the misuse of contempt powers, particularly in Lopez’s case. “Resource person lang siya, hindi naman siya convicted. Bakit kailangang ilagay sa Correctional Facility?” he pointed out.
An Appeal for Peace and Reconciliation
Go lamented the divisive political atmosphere, saying it detracts from the urgent work needed to address pressing issues like inflation, food shortages, and national security.
"Habang nag-aaway ang mga lider, ang nasasakripisyo dito ay ang ordinaryong Pilipino na gusto lang mabuhay nang tahimik," he said. He called on all leaders to set aside political rivalries and focus on serving the people.
The senator also made a direct appeal to Senator Imee Marcos, who he believes has the unique ability to mediate between factions. Referencing her role in uniting the Marcos and Duterte camps during the last elections, Go said, “Kung napagsama niya noon sa Uniteam, baka pwede ulit siyang maging instrument for peace and reconciliation.”
Moving Forward
As the nation faces numerous challenges, Go stressed the need for leaders to focus on their mandates. “Sayang ang oras kung puro away. Ang kailangan ng mga Pilipino ngayon ay maayos na serbisyo, hindi kontrobersya,” he said.
The senator’s plea is clear: unity, respect, and a renewed focus on public service should take precedence over political bickering. For Go, it’s not just about doing one’s job—it’s about ensuring a peaceful and productive future for every Filipino.
Nov 24, 2024
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