During the hearing, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa pressed Special Envoy on Transnational Crimes, Ambassador Markus Lacanilao, on whether FPRRD was brought before a local court before his transfer to the ICC, as required to ensure due process. Apparently, Lacanilao, as representative of the Philippine Center on Transnational Crimes (PCTC), was with FPRRD from his arrest upon his arrival in Manila to his transfer to Villamor Air Base, and on the plane to The Hague. His signature even appears on several documents, including the “Transfer of Custody” and “Information on the Surrender and Transfer,” which indicated he represented the Philippine government, though he claimed to act as an Interpol representative. Escudero argued that the detention lacked due process because it was not approved by him and called the detention “unauthorized.” A defect easily cured by approving and signing off on the contempt order. While the incident demonstrated the effectiveness of procedural checks in the Senate, it also shows that the system of checks and balances is only invoked when it suits the objectives of those in positions of authority, not for the right reasons: giving everyone equal protection under the law, observing justice and fairness in the performance of their functions. The line has been drawn in the Senate between those who will advocate for the FPRRD and the Vice President during her impeachment, and those who will deliver for the Marcos administration.. Read Full Story
