PNP leaves it to court if de Lima can do video conference during Senate sessions

August 28, 2019

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it will be up to the court whether they will allow detained Senator Leila de Lima to do a video conference during Senate sessions.

"Well, we will wait on the decision of the court. That is a matter that will depend on the decision of the court," said Police General Oscar Albayalde, the PNP chief,  in a press conference last Tuesday. 

The statement came after eight former Senators expressed support on the proposed Senate Resolution No. 51 filed by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Senator Panfilo Lacson Jr to let De Lima participate in plenary sessions through teleconferencing.

"If they say that she will be allowed then we cannot do anything, we have to follow the order of the court," Albayalde added.

The eight former senators said De Lima, who has been detained at the PNP headquarters since 2017, needs to fulfill her mandate such as attending plenary sessions, attend important hearings ajd caucuses and to hold hearings of the committee on social justice, welfare and rural development, which she chairs.

The resolution was backed by Senate President Vicente Sotto III.

Some senators did not like the proposed resolution.

Senator Ramon Revilla Jr called foul on the idea while Senator Ronald Dela Rosa expressed concern other detained officials will request for the same treatment.  Ella Dionisio/DMS