Manila: Senator JV Ejercito on Tuesday stated that the arrest of his brother, Senator Jinggoy Estrada, should not be seen as an attack on the independence of the Senate. He emphasized that the legal process must proceed while the chamber continues with its legislative functions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ejercito expressed his sadness over Estrada's arrest during a radio interview but stressed his duty as an elected public servant to uphold accountability and let the courts decide on the matter. He acknowledged the personal and professional challenges posed by the situation, given his familial ties to Estrada and his responsibilities as a senator.

Ejercito highlighted the importance of allowing the courts to determine Estrada's guilt or innocence, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability, especially concerning public funds. He explained that the recent non-convening of the Senate session was perceived by the minority bloc as a boycott related to Estrada's arrest, rather than an issue of Senate independence.

The senator noted that the minority senators were present in the session hall for the scheduled session resumption but were surprised by the absence of the majority bloc members. Ejercito emphasized the urgency of continuing Senate work due to the limited remaining session days and pending legislative matters, including bills on final reading and confirmations for the Commission on Appointments.

He urged his fellow senators to prioritize restoring public trust in the Senate amid the current political tensions. Meanwhile, Senator Erwin Tulfo criticized the majority bloc for failing to attend the session, arguing that senators are paid to fulfill their legislative duties and should not boycott over the arrest of a colleague. Tulfo suggested that the majority should have used the Senate floor to express their grievances rather than disrupt legislative proceedings.