A SIGNIFICANT loss to the government is incurred by Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa’s continued absence from Senate sessions, according to Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro.
Castro said the senator has been absent reportedly to avoid arrest by the International Criminal Court, where he is a co-accused in the crime against humanity case filed against former president Rodrigo Duterte. Dela Rosa was PNP chief during Duterte’s drug war.
Despite missing sessions, the senator continues to receive his salary because lawmakers are not covered by the “no work, no pay” policy.
Castro questioned why an elected official who is not reporting for work is still drawing compensation.
“Hindi ba nalulugi ang bansa sa mga taong nawawala, hindi nagre-report, na nagprinsintang maging public servant pero hindi pala kakayanin?” Castro said.
She added that the Senate should act on the matter, saying it is unacceptable for Dela Rosa’s lawyer to claim the senator is not hiding while also saying he is “not available.”
