Manila, Philippines — For the majority of ordinary Filipino workers, no work. no pay policy is being implemented—which mandates that an absence from work equals to not having a pay.
This is why the general public remains outraged with Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa still getting paid with his salary despite the six-month long absence.
It can be recalled that since November 11, Dela Rosa has not shown up in his office following Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla’s pronouncement that there is an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) out for him.
WIth his continued absence, Dela Rosa is now facing an ethics complaint, now acted upon by the related Senate Committee.
Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges Chairperson Senator JV Ejercito said that they have now asked Dela Rosa to comment on the ethics complaint, as well as to the proposed amendment on Senate rules on the punishment for Senator’s prolonged absence.
Dela Rosa is named as the top senator absentee during the first regular session of the 20th congress.
Ejercito had earlier urged Dela Rosa to forgo from receiving his salary and allowances during the time that he is absent.
Ejercito said that there is no existing rule in the Senate regarding punishment or salary deduction for absentees.
Dela Rosa’s monthly salary and allowances is estimated at over P230,000.
Ejercito also noted that Dela Rosa is sought for a comment as this is a matter of rules amendment, which shall be done with all the members of the plenary.
Earlier, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto expressed support in issuing a show cause order to Dela Rosa to explain and comment on the ongoing impeachment complaint.