JANUARY 28, 2026 — What happens when a senator goes missing in action? That’s the question now swirling around Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, whose prolonged absence from Senate sessions since November 11, 2025 has sparked talk of suspending his salary. Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson revealed that leadership is considering amending Senate rules to withhold pay, a move that could set a precedent for lawmakers who fail to show up for work.

“More or less, ‘yun ang isang suggestion. Baka i-suspend or itigil ‘yung sweldo,” Lacson said. 

(More or less, that’s the suggestion. To suspend or stop the salary.) 

He added that while senators are covered by civil service law, the Senate’s own rules and its ethics panel could recommend such action once adopted by the plenary.

The issue stems from Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla’s claim that the International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for dela Rosa, tagging him as a co-perpetrator in the crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte. Yet, no official confirmation of the warrant has surfaced. In the meantime, dela Rosa’s empty seat in the Senate has become a symbol of accountability — or the lack of it.

Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV is reportedly preparing to file an ethics case against dela Rosa in March, which could trigger formal proceedings. 

Lacson himself admitted he won’t be part of any sanctions, saying, “For one simple reason — I have no moral authority, as I was in almost the same situation more than 15 years ago.”

Ghost senator with a fat paycheck?

If ordinary employees live under the rule of “no work, no pay,” why should senators be exempt? Imagine a factory worker missing shifts for months — would management still release their salary? Of course not. Yet in the halls of power, the rules bend differently. 

Should taxpayers continue footing the bill for a senator who hasn’t been doing the job?

This debate cuts to the heart of public trust. Filipinos expect their leaders to show up, legislate, and represent. If they don’t, then why should they be paid? The Senate’s move to possibly suspend dela Rosa’s salary is about setting a standard that lawmakers are not above the rules that govern ordinary workers.

Honestly, could you afford not showing up to your job for months and still expect a salary?

(Image: Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa | Facebook)