By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri cautioned on Tuesday (May 7, 2024) against the use of Senate hearings for political persecution by witnesses.
During a press conference, Zubiri emphasized that hearsay cannot serve as evidence, stressing the necessity of factual evidence to establish an individual’s guilt.
The senator’s remarks came in the wake of the Committee on Public Order’s hearing on the alleged involvement of veteran actress Maricel Soriano and the President in illegal drug activities, based on leaked documents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
“There must be a preponderance of evidence to arrive at the right answers and conclusions,” he asserted.
“Let’s be cautious. Let’s not allow ourselves to be used for political persecution,” the lawmaker added.
Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada questioned the credibility of former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales, who was dishonorably discharged from service. Morales had attested to the supposed authenticity of leaked 2012 documents allegedly implicating the President.
“You’re mentioning names of personalities, including the President and a prominent actress, without evidence, claiming it came from an informant. Now you’re saying you can’t remember?” the senator remarked.
Soriano appeared before the lawmakers, admitting ownership of condo unit 46-C in Rizal Tower, Rockwell, Makati City, which was subject to a PDEA operation in 2012.
However, Soriano stated that she sold the property in 2012, though she couldn’t recall the exact month.
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is urging President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to consider the Senate-passed bill, the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act.
Zubiri emphasized that the legislated minimum wage hike would be “the best gift that the President can give to all our workers.”
“I am in full agreement with our President’s call for the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards to regularly review our minimum wages, and for the National Wages and Productivity Commission to ensure that the boards do so,” stated the Senate President.
“Furthermore, I urgently appeal to our President to consider Senate Bill No. 2534, or the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act. This would mark a significant step toward providing our hardworking laborers with the living wages they deserve. Perhaps it could even be certified as urgent, given the ongoing spike in the prices of goods due to inflation.”
The bill was approved in the Senate on its third and final reading in February and is currently pending in the House of Representatives.
Zubiri, the primary author of the minimum wage increase bill, is hopeful for a counterpart bill from the House.
“All we require is the House counterpart measure, and its impact will be immediately felt across the sector.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri hopes that the lower chamber will pass the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act to improve the working conditions of Filipino workers.
“This country thrives on the hard work of our labor force. They drive our industries, and any economic progress we achieve owes much to their dedication,” Zubiri stated on Labor Day, May 1.
“Despite their pivotal role in our economy, however, our workers often find themselves undervalued for their contributions. Therefore, we in the Senate stand in solidarity with every Filipino worker, advocating for their rights, from fairer wages to safer work environments,” he added.
In February, the Senate approved on third and final reading of Senate Bill 2534, titled “An Act Providing for a 100 Pesos Daily Minimum Wage Increase for Employees and Workers in the Private Sector.”
The Commission on Human Rights also expressed support for the legislation, affirming that an increase in the daily minimum wage is a “positive step towards enhancing the Filipino workforce.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday (April 29, 2024) urged the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to immediately revert to pre-pandemic school calendar instead of having a gradual shift.
“Aside from exposing our students and teachers to the dangers of extreme heat, I honestly believe that the prevailing weather conditions during summer are not conducive to learning,” Zubiri said.
“Kaya kung pwede sana, huwag na natin hintayin ang School Year 2025-2026. Kung kayang ipatupad sa susunod na school year, gawin na natin at kawawa ang ating mga estudyante sa susunod na summer,” the Senate chief added.
Zubiri said he also withdrew Senate Bill No. 788, filed at the start of the 19th Congress, which synchronizes the school year to start in August.
DepEd earlier released a statement that the original proposal of gradual reversion of the school calendar was five years and has now been reduced to two years and further reducing it would have impacts on the students’ learning outcomes.
Some face-to-face classes were suspended due to the high heat index.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed his readiness to fight for the country as he accepted his Lieutenant Colonel rank in the Philippine Army Reserves on Monday (April 8, 2024).
Zubiri emphasized the shared responsibility between himself and the Philippine Army in protecting the sovereignty and democracy of the country. He highlighted his advocacy for military modernization and increased budget allocation in the Senate.
“It is a great honor to finally come to the culmination of that partnership, as I now take on the responsibility of being a reserve Lieutenant Colonel of the Army, prepared to defend the country not only in the halls of the Senate but also out in our war rooms and on the field, alongside you all,” Zubiri expressed.
Acknowledging the weight of his new role, Zubiri conveyed his respect for the dedication and skills of the men and women of the Army, recognizing that no reservist could ever fully measure up to their commitment.
The ceremony was witnessed by officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including AFP Chief-of-Staff General Romeo S. Brawner, a former head of the Philippine Army, along with Brigadier General Daniel Tansip, Brigadier General Bernardo Fortez, and Major General Romulo Manuel.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has reiterated that he is no longer considering seeking public office and is contemplating retiring from politics after serving in public service for 30 years.
“To dispel any arising rumors, I want to clarify that I will not be running for any public office in 2028, and I am indeed contemplating retirement after nearly three decades in politics,” Zubiri stated.
These remarks follow his review of the Pulse Asia survey results, which showed a 7 percent preference rating among politicians mentioned as potential vice presidential candidates.
“Any survey results indicating positive feedback for me and our institution serve as a testament to the Senate’s enduring commitment to delivering quality service to our citizens,” he added.
In 2023, Zubiri stated that he was not seeking a higher position.
“At this juncture, I have no political ambitions; I am looking forward to retiring in 2028. By then, I will have served in elected office for 25 years. After participating in numerous elections, I am feeling weary,” the senator previously remarked.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that the Senate would still give another chance to the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) to attend hearing before being arrested after ignoring the summons of the upper house.
“Kausapin ko muna si Senator Risa (Hontiveros) kasi, naglabas na ng ruling ang Supreme Court sa Pharmally issue regarding the indirect contempt. So, under the ruling of the Supreme Court, we must exhaust all legal avenues. In other words, due process,” Zubiri said.
“So, ang request ko kay Senator Risa, all she has to do is to come up with another committee hearing. Maybe today or tomorrow or Monday, to give a show cause order,” he added.
Quiboloy has never attended any hearing conducted by the Senate.
Earlier, the Senate issued a subpoena against Quiboloy for not attending the legislative inquiry on the alleged child abuse and human trafficking case of the pastor.
According to Hontivero’s camp, the senator is scheduled to discuss the matter with Zubiri.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Several senators have voiced their support for Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri amidst swirling rumors of his potential replacement by fellow senator Jinggoy Estrada.
Senators Win Gatchalian and Sonny Angara are among those who have endorsed Zubiri’s leadership by signing a resolution in his favor.
“I have already signed the resolution in support of the Senate President,” Angara affirmed.
Addressing the recurrent rumors, Angara stated, “The rumors keep resurfacing, and we just want to put this issue to rest so that we can focus on our legislative duties effectively.”
“There isn’t any undue pressure. Our main goal is to ensure that these rumors aren’t fabricated. I believe the Senate President is reaching out to everyone,” he added.
Gatchalian echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The resolution serves as an expression of gratitude and acknowledgment for his leadership… I’ve not heard of any coup, and the way the Senate President has defended our institution speaks volumes.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri signed the subpoena of Kingdom of Jesus Christ pastor Apollo Carreon Quiboloy on Monday (19 Feb 2024) morning ordering him to appear before the Senate on the alleged sexual abuse and human trafficking.
The subpoena orders Quiboloy to attend Senate hearings on Monday (26 Feb 2024).
Quiboloy has not yet attended any of the hearings in the Upper House.
Senator Risa Hontiveros has expressed her gratitude to Zubiri for his move on signing the subpoena.
“Hindi din po tayo papayag na sabihin sa mga victim-survivor na ‘Teka muna, meron tayong krisis pampulitika. Wait lang tayo kasi tatapusin pa ang mga ibang issues’,” she said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri vowed on Friday (16 Feb 2024) that he would sign the subpoena for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy upon his return to the Senate.
This action is part of the ongoing probe against Quiboloy regarding alleged human trafficking and sexual abuse.
“I have been informed by my staff that the subpoena for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has been prepared and is now ready for my signature. I am currently in the Visayas for several engagements, but I will sign all necessary documents upon my return,” Zubiri stated.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed urgency, stating that they could not afford to wait for the subpoena.
“In the meantime, the committee cannot delay awaiting the subpoena. We will proceed with the hearing, especially since we have a second batch of witnesses,” Hontiveros emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri announced on Wednesday (31 Jan 2024) that the Upper Chamber will address the issue of Charter change (Cha-cha) in the coming week.
“Next week, hearings for RBH (Resolution of Both Houses) 6 will commence. We aim to lower the political temperatures in the country,” he stated.
“Today, we will establish the subcommittee, with Senator Angara heading it, with the permission, of course, of Senator Padilla. Then, next week, hearings on RBH 6 will begin, and everything is progressing as planned,” Zubiri added.
RBH 6, filed by Zubiri on January 15, focuses on limiting Charter revisions to the relaxation of restrictions on foreign ownership in public utilities, advertising, and educational institutions.
Zubiri mentioned that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had instructed him to lead the review of the Constitution’s economic provisions.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — Zubiri urges Filipinos to honor the Malolos Republic by upholding the Constitution, emphasizing that any constitutional changes should be approached with a deep understanding and consideration, free from self-serving motives.
He made this declaration during his speech commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the Malolos Republic.
“These are the freedoms courageously fought for by our ancestors who crafted the Malolos Constitution. Therefore, any amendments to our Fundamental Law should undergo thorough study and reflection, rooted not in personal agendas but in the collective welfare. Our collective freedom is at stake here,” Zubiri stated.
“Whatever actions we take today for the nation and the succeeding generations, may history judge us as faithful public servants who did what was right for the people,” he added.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had previously assigned the Senate, under Zubiri’s leadership, to lead the review of the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
Zubiri emphasized that the freedoms enshrined in the Malolos Constitution initiated 125 years ago, persistently find protection in the 1987 Constitution.
“Up to this day, the freedom advocated by the Malolos Republic is safeguarded in our Constitution: freedom from internal and external forces of oppression; freedom from hunger and injustice; and the freedom of every Filipino to have a voice in shaping our nation’s future,” Zubiri expressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that Senator Jinggoy Estrada is still duty-bound to continue performing his functions as Senator despite a bribery conviction in connection with a pork barrel scam.
In his statement, Zubiri said that Estrada can still exhaust all the legal remedies.
“He has the right to exhaust all of these,” Zubiri stressed.
“He can still file a Motion for Reconsideration with the Sandiganbayan; he can still file an appeal by certiorari with the Supreme Court,” he added.
In the decision of Sandiganbayan Fifth Division, Estrada was acquitted of plunder but convicted of direct and indirect bribery in connection with the pork barrel scam.
Meanwhile, Sen. JV Ejercito, Estrada’s brother, said that the people should “respect the wisdom and fairness of our justice system.”
“Our justice system, despite its imperfection, is there to maintain law and order, protect our rights, and provide justice,” Ejercito said in a separate statement.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that he will step down from his position if the Constitutional amendment on political provisons will push through.
“Rest assure you, wala po tayong political amendments… It will be my political head at stake,” Zubiri said.
“At least sa amin sa Senado hindi namin ipapasingit ‘yan. If there will be a move like that, then I will resign as Senate President. It’s as simple as that. We guarantee, it’s only simple economic amendments, economic provisions, and para gumanda ang bansa at hindi para sa kapakanan ng iilang tao, lalu na sa mga pulitiko,” he added.
Zubiri reiterated the order of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to let the Senate take the lead on review on the 1987 Constitution.
“Let’s say the (lower) house passes political amendments, hindi kami papayag. So stalemate. The President said in our meeting last week that very simple, let the Senate take the lead and adopt the Senate version. Very clear ‘yun. We had several witnesses, and the Speaker agreed,” the Senate President said.
Article 17, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution provides that “[a]ny amendment to, or revision of, this Constitution may be proposed by:
(1) The Congress, upon a vote of three-fourths of all its Members; or (2) A constitutional convention.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri revealed that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued an order for the Senate to take the lead in reviewing the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
Zubiri made this announcement following his second meeting with the President.
“This directive aims to prevent a constitutional crisis between the House of Representatives and the Senate, emphasizing that the focus is solely on economic aspects, with no plans for amendments on other matters,” stated Zubiri.
He further disclosed that President Marcos has engaged in discussions about the people’s initiative with House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
If the proposed Senate resolution is approved, Zubiri noted that Marcos has advised the House of Representatives to adopt it.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed his wholehearted approval of the appointment of House Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto as the new Secretary of the Department of Finance.
“I do not doubt that he will excel as Finance Secretary, continuing to propel the country towards greater economic prosperity,” Zubiri stated.
Zubiri highlighted Recto’s reputation as the “resident numbers genius” in the Senate, emphasizing not only his mathematical prowess but, more significantly, his ability to swiftly grasp the broader implications of numerical data.
“Beyond his mathematical acumen, he possesses a profound understanding of bridging the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and the tangible realities our nation confronts,” added Zubiri.
Recto assumes the role previously held by Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno.
(el Amigo/MNM)
Ni Liza Soriano
MANILA — Hiniling ni Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri at ng iba pang senador ang isang makabuluhang pagdiriwang ng Pasko sa mga pamilyang Pilipino, umaasa na ang mga tao ay patuloy na magkaisa para sa kabutihang panlahat at isulong ang bansa at mga komunidad sa pag-unlad.
Sa kanyang mensahe nitong Linggo (24 Dec 2023), nagbalik-tanaw si Zubiri sa mga naabot ng Senado at iba pang institusyon ng gobyerno.
“Sama-sama po nating ipagpasalamat ang mga biyayang natanggap natin nitong taon, sama-sama rin nating ipagdiwang ang mga nakamit nating tagumpay. Marami tayong nagawa sa ating pagkakaisa,” ayon kay Zubiri.
“At sa patuloy nating pagtutulungan, mas marami pa tayong magsagawa para sa ating mga pamilya, para sa ating mga komunidad, at para sa buong bayan. Dasal ko po na magkaroon kayo ng isang masaya at makabuluhang Pasko kasama ng inyong mga pamilya,” dagdag pa niya.
Hinimok naman ni Senadora Risa Hontiveros ang mga Pilipino na patuloy na magpursigi.
“Gaya ng mga nagdaan nating paggunita sa Kapaskuhan, lagi’t lagi nating tanggapin ang pagpapala, pag-asa, at pag-ibig na dala ng kapanganakan ng Poong Hesus. Patuloy nating punuin ng liwanag at pag-asa ang ating mga tahanan sa kabila ng matitinding hamon at dagok na ating hinaharap at napagtagumpayan ngayong taon,” ayon kay Hontiveros.
“Sa kabila ng lahat, tayong mga magkakapamilya at magkakapitbahay ay nananatiling nagkakaisa at nagdadamayan, bigyang sigla at lakas natin ang lipunan na patuloy na pa-igtingin ang pagpapabuti ng kagalingan ng bawat isang Pilipino,” dagdag pa niya.
Para naman kay Sen. Nancy Binay, dapat patuloy na maging inspirasyon sa kapwa.
“Kapos man tayo sa mga bagay na materyal, marami po tayong maibibigay sa ating kapwa na magpapasaya sa kanilang Pasko. Nawa’y maging inspirasyon tayo sa ating kapwa upang panatilihing buhay ang diwa ng pagmamahalan at pagbibigayan ngayong kapaskuhan,” aniya ni Binay.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has announced that the Senate is in the process of identifying a new chairperson for the powerful Blue Ribbon Committee.
Zubiri expressed his respect for Senator Francis Tolentino’s decision to resign from his position as the head of the Blue Ribbon Committee.
He commended Tolentino’s efficient and productive leadership, acknowledging the committee’s effective exercise of its power to investigate matters related to the accountability of public officers.
“Sen. Tolentino’s tenure as the head of the Blue Ribbon Committee has been marked by efficiency and productivity. Under his capable leadership, the committee has successfully fulfilled its mandate to investigate issues relevant to the accountability of public officials,” said Zubiri.
Regarding the selection of the new chair for the Blue Ribbon Committee, Zubiri emphasized that this process would involve thorough consultations with Senate colleagues. Acknowledging the significant role Tolentino played, Zubiri expressed confidence in finding a suitable replacement among the talented lawyers within the Senate.
“Sen. Tolentino has left big shoes to fill, but I am sure we can find a suitable replacement in our ranks of brilliant lawyers in the chamber,” he added.
Senator Tolentino had previously announced his resignation, stating, “This decision is rooted in a deep-seated belief that public office demands fidelity to pledges made.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
Ni Liza Soriano
NANINIWALA ang liderato ng Senado na nasa desisyon na ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. kung muling papasok ang Pilipinas sa International al Criminal Court (ICC) o hindi.
Ito ang iginiit ni Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri at hindi, aniya, ang mga senador ang magpapasya rito.
Nilinaw ito ni Zubiri mataoos ang pahayag ni Senador Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa na kailangan munang pumayag ng Senado bago muling makapasok sa ICC ang Pilipinas.
Paliwanag pa ni Zubiri, ang Pangulong Bongbong Marcos ang dapat magdesisyon dito bilang chief foreign policy maker ng bansa.
“Whether to re-enter or to remain out of the jurisdiction of the ICC is not a decision we the Senators make. It is the decision of the President of the Republic being the Chief foreign policy maker of our country,” sabi pa ng Senate President.
“Tanging si Marcos lang ang nararapat magdesisyon at lahat ay ingay lang kung dapat ba tayong muling pumasok o hindi sa ICC,” dagdag pa ng pinuno ng Senado.
Ayaw rin umanong magkomento ni Zubiri tungkol dito dahil dapat ay hintayin na lamang muna ang desisyon ni PBBM tungkol dito.
Samantala, si dating Senate President Franklin Drilon ay nagbigay rin ng kanyang pahayag tungkol dito na kawangis din ng mga sinabi ni Zubiri.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Short of saying that she shouldn’t sow intrigues, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has sharply rebuked Senator Imee Marcos, saying she was only “misinformed” regarding the absence of American legislators at the 31st annual meeting of the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) held in Manila last week.
The senator from Ilocos Norte who is rumored to be the vice presidential teammate of the country’s vice president from Davao City in 2028 took notice of the absence of the US lawmakers at the APPF, a forum of around 300 lawmakers from Asia Pacific countries from November 23 to 25, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and hosted by the Philippines.
On November 24, she asked if there was some failure of coordination which ultimately led to the American legislators’ absence.
“I think Senator Imee was misinformed. We invited the speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States and also the senators to come. It’s unfortunate na yung timing lang po is that it is Thanksgiving (In America),” Zubiri said In a press briefing before the APPF closing ceremony on Saturday, November 25.
The Senate President added that US Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio wrote to him expressing their regrets for missing the APPF.
“It doesn’t have something to do with politics. They wanted to come because of course they consider themselves as allies of the Philippines. It’s just the timing. So let’s not put any political color,” Zubiri said.
(ai/mnm)