Senator Bong Go underscores due process, fairness, and non-partisanship as the Senate Committee on Ethics convenes

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go placed emphasis on institutional integrity, fairness, and strict adherence to due process as he formally expressed support for the leadership and work of the Senate Committee on Ethics during its long-awaited organizational meeting.

Speaking on the floor during the organizational meeting of the Committee on February 4, Go highlighted the fundamental responsibility of the Committee on Ethics to safeguard public trust in the Senate. He stressed that decisions must be anchored solely on facts, evidence, and established rules, and that all actions of the committee should remain transparent and even-handed.

His remarks were delivered as the committee met for the first time in its fully constituted form, seven months into the opening of the 20th Congress.

“At the outset, I would like to manifest my support for the Chairperson and this Committee as we convene for this organizational meeting.”

Go went on to articulate the importance of the committee’s mandate within the Senate, underscoring its role in maintaining institutional integrity. “The Committee on Ethics plays a crucial role in this august chamber. It is tasked with ensuring the integrity and credibility of the Senate as an institution. Kaya andito po ako, para sumuporta sa Komite,” he said.

As the committee begins its work, Go urged members to remain guided by fundamental principles that protect both the institution and those who may be subject to its processes. “As we organize and convene this Committee, we must always be guided by the principles of due process and fairness,” he said. He reinforced this point in Filipino, adding, “Dapat po’y pantay pantay po ang trato dito ng lahat.”

Go further warned against allowing political motives to influence the committee’s actions. “Hindi dapat mahaluan ng pulitika ang trabaho natin sa komiteng ito,” he said, stressing that ethics proceedings must remain insulated from partisan considerations.

He continued by outlining the standards that should govern all decisions of the committee. “Our decisions should always be based on facts, evidence, and rules. We must eliminate partisanship or personal considerations,” Go said.

###