(UPDATE) A CIVIL society organization led by former Finance undersecretary Cielo Magno has filed an ethics complaint before the Senate against Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa, citing his continued absence from official duties for more than three months.
The group, “Wag Kang KuCorrupt,” accused Dela Rosa of neglecting his responsibilities as a lawmaker and committing what it described as a grave abuse of the public trust.
In the complaint submitted to the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, the organization argued that the senator’s prolonged absence undermines the mandate given to him by Filipino voters. It stressed that elected officials are duty-bound to attend plenary sessions, participate in committee hearings and deliberate on measures affecting national policy.
“Continued absence from Senate sessions is not only neglect of duty but also a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon him by the people,” the complaint read.
Magno drew comparisons between the standards imposed on public officials and ordinary workers, noting that employees who are repeatedly absent from work are typically placed on leave without pay and may face disciplinary measures, including salary deductions, suspension or termination.
She said senators, as public servants receiving taxpayer-funded salaries and benefits, should be held to at least the same level of accountability.
Magno called on the Senate Ethics Committee to immediately act on the complaint and impose appropriate sanctions if violations are found.
“The Senate should not tolerate this behavior of continued absence and failure to fulfill official duties,” she said.
Dela Rosa has yet to issue a statement responding to the complaint.
Under Senate rules, the Committee on Ethics and Privileges has the authority to investigate complaints against members and recommend penalties, which may range from reprimand to suspension, subject to approval by the chamber.
The case is expected to test internal accountability mechanisms within the Senate, as civil society groups continue to push for higher standards of transparency and responsibility among elected officials.