The Senate Blue Ribbon subcommittee, chaired by Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, was unable to cite former President Rodrigo Duterte in contempt for his behavior during a recent hearing on his anti-drug campaign due to Senate rules limiting subcommittee powers.
Pimentel plans to amend these rules to allow subcommittees the authority to hold individuals in contempt, especially after Duterte used expletives and took the spotlight in the proceedings.
Senator Risa Hontiveros warned that if Duterte continues with similar behavior, she would seek contempt action.
Pimentel defended allowing Duterte to speak at length, stating it was crucial to gather testimonies, especially since Duterte might not attend future hearings.
The hearing’s records have drawn international attention, with former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV submitting transcripts to the International Criminal Court, where Duterte faces charges related to his war on drugs.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 3, 2024
