Senator Rodante Marcoleta on Tuesday expressed disappointment toward Senator Panfilo Lacson, following remarks made during a Senate plenary debate on inter-parliamentary courtesy and the possible issuance of subpoenas involving members of Congress.
Marcoleta said he was saddened by what he perceived as a shift in Lacson’s stance, recalling that he once deeply admired the veteran lawmaker for his strong leadership and reform-oriented record, particularly during his time as Philippine National Police chief.
“Parang yung pedestal na aking hinangaan… unti-unting gumuho. Nalulungkot po ako,” Marcoleta said, as he questioned why he felt he was being repeatedly alluded to in discussions.
His remarks came after Lacson raised concerns over proposals that could allow one chamber of Congress to subpoena a member of the other, warning that such actions could undermine long-standing bicameral respect.
“It must be emphasized that no member of Congress has ever been subjected to a subpoena by either chamber. Such an act would risk undermining the balance and mutual respect that define bicameral relations,” Lacson said.
To illustrate potential consequences, Lacson cited a hypothetical scenario where the House Committee on Justice could issue a subpoena to Marcoleta in relation to a possible investigation into his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE), questioning whether the Senate would be ready to set aside inter-parliamentary courtesy.
“Handa po ba ang liderato ng Senado at si Sen. Marcoleta na baliwalain ang interparliamentary courtesy? ” Lacson asked.
In response, Marcoleta stressed that lawmakers should avoid personal tensions and instead focus on their shared duty to serve the public.
“Bakit kailangan akong palaging pinapasaringan? … Isa lang po ang sikat dito—ang taong bayan na pinagsisilbihan nating lahat,” he said.
The exchange underscores growing tensions in the Senate as debates over institutional protocols intersect with personal and political differences among lawmakers.
