KIKO: THE ISSUE OF INHIBITION IS NOT DEAD

The inhibition of three Supreme Court justices from the executive privilege case reconsideration is still possible even without the nod of all the senators, Senate Majority Leader and Independent senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan today said.

'Contrary to reports, the issue of inhibition is not dead. We are still trying to secure support from other senators. We have until sometime next week to file a motion should a consensus be reached. In addition, even without reaching a consensus, any senator or a number of senators may opt to file a motion for inhibition,' Kiko said.

''As majority leader, however, i believe it would be ideal for us to seek the support of the majority and that a consensus is reached by the Senate as an institution rather than senators moving for the inhibition in their personal capacities,' Kiko said.

"No less than incumbent Chief Justice Reynato Puno and former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban have expressed very strong opinions against the majority decision favoring Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chairman Romulo Neri's invocation of executive privilege. Justice Puno even wrote a dissenting opinion. Father Joaquin Bernas, a member of the Constitutional Commission and an acknowledged constitutionalist, describes said decision as one that cripples the Senate. They, who aren't Senators have strongly opposed the ruling, we in the Senate cannot oppose it any less. We are pinning our hopes that the High Tribunal will seriously consider our Motion for Reconsideration," Kiko stressed.

Kiko believes that the grounds set forth in the motion for inhibition are valid and material. Justice Arturo Brion was not yet appointed when the petition of Commission Higher Education (CHED) Romulo Neri invoking executive privilege was heard. Justice Renato Corona's wife, in a paid advertisement, was reported to have publicly expressed support for President Gloria Arroyo. Said wife is also reported to be a presidential appointee. Justice Presbitero Velasco is said to be petitioner Neri's golf buddy.

"We must defend the constitution and the rule of law. It is our sworn duty to do so mightily, employing all means necessary and legal to achieve this noble defense."Kiko ended.