By Junex Doronio
MANILA — “Think before you speak.”
The line above should have reminded former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s staunch political ally and incumbent Davao del Norte Representative Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez when he had called for the withdrawal of support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police (PNP) from the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Aside from the “seditious utterances,” the complainants from Davao del Norte, led by Rey Uy, have also accused Alvarez of violating the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for public officials, as well as committing disorderly behavior and conduct unbecoming of a public official for allegedly making libelous remarks against his fellow local officials and habitual absences in the House of Representatives proceedings.
“As of last night (12 May 2024), we are yet to receive an answer from former Speaker Alvarez,” House ethics and privileges panel chairperson Jill Bongalon of Ako Bicol party-list said in a press conference.
When asked about the possible penalties for Alvarez, Bongalon said that under House rules, a lawmaker found guilty of an ethics case may face the following: admonition, reprimand, censure, 60 calendar days suspension, expulsion, or any other penalty that the committee may recommend.
“The findings of the ethics committee…is just recommendatory. The House [members in] plenary will vote to approve or disapprove the recommendation of the committee, whatever it is,” Bongalon said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
