đź“·MindaNews
The House ethics panel finds probable reasons to pursue the congressional probe against former Speaker Pantaelon Alvarez of Davao del Norte over allegations filed by local officials who accused the legislator of inciting sedition in a gathering that took place in Davao del Norte.
According to COOP-NATCCO partylist Rep. Felimon Espares in his capacity as chairman of the House ethics committee, the panel will pursue a congressional inquiry over the former House Speaker’s “disorderly behavior.”
Espares particularly hinted at AZlvarez’ statement during a protest rally with former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“We came up with the decision that we need to continue the hearing next week, for the formal and adjudicatory hearing. It is on disorderly behavior [due to the] statement being uttered in rallies. We will proceed with our formal hearing next week,” Espares said in reference to the complaint made by Tagum City, Davao del Norte Mayor Rey Uy and other local officials.
Next hearing is set for Monday, May 20.
“Based on our initial review, there is a basis why the complaint was filed, and we determined that it is within our jurisdiction to receive evidence over this complaint and if there is an appropriate action that we need to take.”
“These [incidents] happened during the 19th Congress, so the Committee has jurisdiction. We have reason to believe that the Committee should investigate this [complaint],” the solon further noted.
Interestingly, the House ethics panel said that determining whether or not the former S[peaker’s statements were seditious or inciting to sedition is beyond the ambit of the committee.
In an earlier statement, Alvarez invoked his constitutional right to free expression. (ANGEL F. JOSE)
