MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos has insisted that her colleague Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa continues to fulfill his duties as a lawmaker even though he has not physically attended Senate sessions for nearly two months.

Marcos told reporters that dela Rosa remains active through his staff. “Nakakapagpirma pa rin siya. Nagtatrabaho pa rin,” she said, stressing that ministerial functions such as signing documents and endorsing measures can be done remotely.

Dela Rosa, a close ally of former president Rodrigo Duterte and the first chief of the Philippine National Police under his administration, has been absent since November 7, 2025. His lawyer, Atty. Israelito Torreon, admitted he has had no direct communication with the senator since that date, saying he was only instructed by dela Rosa’s family to move for his defense. Torreon also said he could not confirm if the senator has been in contact with his family.

The absence has fueled speculation after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla claimed that the ICC had allegedly issued a warrant of arrest against dela Rosa in connection with the bloody war on drugs. The ICC has been investigating alleged crimes against humanity committed during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, where dela Rosa played a central role as PNP chief.

Senate insiders noted that dela Rosa has missed plenary debates and committee hearings, raising concerns about representation and accountability. While Marcos defended her colleague, critics argue that legislative work requires more than paperwork — senators are expected to debate, vote, and represent their constituents in person.

Paperwork Is Not Public Service

A senator does more than endorse papers. A senator debates national issues. A senator votes on laws. A senator attends committee hearings and faces public questions. Physical presence forms part of constitutional duty.

Ordinary Filipino workers know this too well. Absence from work leads quickly to notices, deductions, and warnings. Missed days reduce salaries. Missed days threaten job security. Standards applied to factory staff, teachers, drivers, and office clerks appear strict and immediate.

Yet an elected senator receives a defense instead of a deduction.

This double standard feels unfair. It feels unfair to the public who expect representation. It feels unfair to hardworking Filipinos who follow simple attendance rules every day. The Senate must hold its members to the same expectations it demands from citizens.

Legislative accountability requires voices, not just signatures. Voices, not just signatures.

If the nation accepts that months of absence carry no consequence, what message does that send to ordinary workers?

Image from Imee Marcos Facebook