Remote voting risks undermining Senate’s legitimacy, group warns

MANILA, Philippines – A coalition of business and civil society groups on Friday warned that a proposed rule allowing senators to participate and vote remotely could undermine the Senate’s legitimacy.

In a statement, the Justice Reform Initiative (JRI) said changing Senate rules to allow remote attendance raises constitutional questions that could ultimately weaken public trust in the chamber.

“A Senate perceived as allowing its rules to be shaped by political circumstance weakens its own claim to govern under the rule of law,” said the coalition, which includes the Management Association of the Philippines and the American and European Chambers of Commerce in the Philippines.

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“Any procedural change must originate through proper process, proceed through full deliberation, and rest on clear constitutional authority — not on urgency arising from the circumstances of any particular senator,” it added. 

JRI said the timing of the proposed rule change has fueled concerns over its intended purpose.

To recall, Sen. Rodante Marcoleta first raised the proposal on May 11, the same day dela Rosa resurfaced after six-month absence.

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Meanwhile, the proposal resurfaced on May 26, sparking heated debates and a minority walkout.

“The growing public perception that proposed changes may serve the interests of specific individuals — rather than the institution as a whole — is a warning,” the JRI said. /pai