What Senator-elect Robin Padilla must do, according to his former lawyer

“Can Senator-elect Robin Padilla perform his function (effectively) as Senator and Chairman of Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments?”

Iyan ang tanong ng dating abogado ni Padilla na si Rudolf Philip Jurado, sa kanyang Facebook page.

“As former counsel (lawyer) and longtime friend of Senator-elect Robin Padilla (Robin) I was asked many times whether he can perform effectively as senator of the Republic (particularly as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendment) considering his lack of knowledge and education in law (and law making),” ayon kay Jurado na tumayong abogado ng actor-turned-politician nang kasuhan at ma-convict ito sa kasong illegal possession of firearms noong 1990s.

Ayon kay Jurado maraming dapat gawin si Padilla at isa na rito ay pag-aralang mabuti ang kanyang trabaho at tungkulin bilang senador.

“Robin will need to study by heart each and every provisions (as well as the principles) of the 1987 Constitution. Likewise, he must master the parliamentary procedures (Senate Rules of Proceddure). Yes, this is difficult but he must learn these two subjects as soonest to be effective senator and chairman of that committee.”

Kailangan din anyang mag-hire si Padilla ng mga competent na tao na tutulong at gagabay sa kanya.

“Of course, his senate staff will do a great role on this, hence, he must hire competent persons, particularly lawyers, who will guide and help him,” ayon kay Jurado.

Iginiit ni Jurado na marunong at madaling matuto ang aktor.

Narito ang buong post ni Jurado:

“Contrary to the perception of many, marunong si Robin at madaling matuto, Im not saying he is genius or better than us (lawyers) or other senators. What I am saying is that pwede siyang turuan and with proper guidance and teaching (and with his heart and passion to help and perform his task) he will learn and can perform his constitutional functions well.

“I have known Robin since 1992 and believe it or not he is very knowledgeable in many things and issues. We discussed and oftentimes argued in Philippine and international politics, various laws which he perceived to be unjust and anti-poor, religion in which he is good, the life of El Cid, the struggle (and life) of the iconic revolutionary Che Guevarra and other revolutionaries, Philippine history such as the life of Rizal, the Katipunan, the betrayal, trial and the death of Andres Bonifacio, the words of Apolinario Mabini that “Liberty is freedom to do right and never wrong” really captivated his imagination, heart and spirit on what is the true meaning of liberty and yes, even Philippine poetry. Very opinionated and well verse in current issues both local and international. Hindi mo pwedeng bolahin kasi marami rin alam.

“He is also a good speaker ( in Tagalog ). A true master story teller with a gift of tongue that can equal the eloquence of the late Senate president Neptali Gonzales Sr., (the fiery speech of) Edgar Jopson and (the moving speech -Korap o Tapat) of John Arcilla. He can use this talent, which I see none among the other 23 senators (and incoming senators), in delivering his privilege speech in the Senate floor. Bet you will not be dissapointed. Bubuhayin ni Robin ang Senado sa kanyang mga salita. His words will be razor-sharp and hoping that his tongue will not recognize friends from foes but only truth and justice.

“Let us give Robin a chance to prove his worth.