Drilon: Senate can probe corruption in judiciary

Senate President Franklin Drilon said today that any allegation of corruption in the three branches of government is within the jurisdiction of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to investigate, including those raised against members of the judiciary.

“We give utmost respect to the courts, but that does not mean they are above the law or they are exempted from corruption investigations. But imposing penalties and disciplining (magistrates) rest with the Supreme Court according to the Constitution,” said Drilon.

“Our investigation is in aid of legislation to determine what can be done to lessen corruption (in the judiciary), if true,” added Drilon. However, he stressed the Senate can only invite but not coerce justices to appear before its investigations.   “It is up to them if they want to come,” he said.

Two Court of Appeals (CA) justices have recently been tagged by a senator for allegedly receiving bribes in exchange for issuing a controversial temporary restraining order (TRO).

“As to calling justices to appear, we have inter-departmental courtesies and separation of powers. But if the justices want to appear, we can send them invitations. We cannot use our coercive or subpoena power to force the justices to appear,” Drilon said.

The senate chief added that any Senate investigation on judicial corruption should be in general and not focus solely on the two CA justices tagged in the alleged TRO for sale issue, with the end in view of making changes in the judiciary if needed.

He pointed at the Judicial Development Fund (JDF) which he said the House of Representatives has been investigating for the lack of total transparency in its utilization.

On the libel case filed against Senator Antonio Trillanes on his allegation against the two CA justices, Drilon said that lawmakers have immunity from suits arising from their delivery of privilege speeches and in fulfilling their legislative duties. “He cannot be questioned in any other place except the Senate,” Drilon said.

           

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