'Senate hearings do not contribute to legislation anymore'

MANILA, Philippines -  Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago echoed yesterday the sentiments of her colleague Sen. Joker Arroyo on the series of Senate inquiries that end up “valueless” in terms of legislation but become a certified hit in endearing politicians to the public.

Santiago gave this assessment after the Senate released LTA Inc. bookkeeper Rowena del Rosario from detention last week and with the renewed interest of her colleagues in reviving the probe on alleged fraud during the 2004 and 2007 elections.

Del Rosario was ordered arrested and detained for evading to tell the truth about the alleged anomalous purchase of second-hand helicopters by the Philippine National Police.

“Joker is right. There’s too much drama. But if you’re going to look at it, the inquiries do not amount to anything,” Santiago said over radio station dzBB.

Santiago also blamed the massive broadcast media coverage of Senate and House inquiries which “probably encourages senators and other politicians to savor the free publicity.”

She said she doubts if some of her colleagues will restrain themselves during hearings because “in politics, no one will limit his TV exposure especially if he will run in the next election.”

Santiago said the regular processes of making a law are not so appealing to viewers and the Senate inquiries have become avenues for public exposure.

“It is valueless because we only refer cases before the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice so that they can determine if there is probable cause for the filing of cases,” she said.

Santiago is proposing that limits be imposed on the power of the legislative branch to conduct inquiries into relevant issues.