Ping urged: Don’t resign

MANILA, Philippines — One of two designated spokesmen in the prosecution team of the House of Representatives over the weekend appealed to Sen. Panfilo Lacson to stay in the Senate, saying the government needs public servants like him who have “integrity.”

“We respectfully appeal to Sen. Lacson not to resign. The country continues to benefit from his experience, competence, integrity and independent voice in public service,” House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong said.

“At a time when institutions are under close public observation, principled leaders who can elevate public discourse and contribute to institutional stability remain indispensable,” Adiong added.

He said the present political climate calls for leaders capable of helping strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions, especially at a time when government agencies are under intense public scrutiny.

Adiong made the pronouncements following Lacson’s interview with One News’ “Storycon,” that at one point he considered resigning from the Senate out of frustration over recent developments that he believed affected the institution’s public image.

Lacson lamented that this ran counter to the favorable public perception currently being enjoyed by the House, whose 257 members decided to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte and passed priority legislation under President Marcos’ legislative agenda.

“Senator Lacson’s remarks reflect a deep concern for the credibility of public institutions, and we understand why many Filipinos are paying close attention to his observations,” Adiong said.

He said Lacson’s observation presents an opportunity to recognize the legislative work undertaken by the Speaker and House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos.