A civic organization is preparing to file a formal administrative complaint before the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges against party-list Rep. Elijah Rumbaoa San Fernando, citing alleged repeated violations of parliamentary decorum and conduct unbecoming of a member of Congress.
The complaint, to be filed by the Filipino League of Advocates for Good Governance, accuses the lawmaker of a pattern of alleged verbal abuse, use of profanity, and harassment of government officials and resource persons during legislative hearings and public broadcasts.
According to the draft complaint, the Ethics Committee has jurisdiction over the matter under the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Code of Conduct for Members of the House, and Republic Act No. 6713.
Controversial Statements Cited
Among the incidents cited is a public statement in which Rep. San Fernando allegedly addressed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through social media, urging him to jail his own mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, if he is serious about pursuing justice.
The complainant group said the statement was delivered in a manner perceived as provocative and disrespectful to the Office of the President and inconsistent with the standards expected of members of Congress.
The complaint also lists several other alleged incidents involving the use of insulting and derogatory language directed at public officials, including Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, officials of the Department of Finance, and personnel from other government agencies.
Other officials mentioned include Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Romando Artes, Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, and Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez, among others.
Alleged Pattern of Misconduct
The group argued that the incidents, taken together, show a pattern of repeated misconduct occurring on separate occasions and in various public settings, including official committee hearings and online platforms.
It further alleged that the conduct undermines the dignity of legislative proceedings, intimidates government officials performing their duties, and erodes public confidence in the House of Representatives.
“The numerous incidents described in this complaint demonstrate a pattern of repeated misconduct rather than isolated lapses in judgment,” the group said.
Possible Sanctions
Under House rules, members are required to maintain the dignity and integrity of the institution, avoid personal attacks, and refrain from using offensive or abusive language during debates and official proceedings.
If the Ethics Committee finds sufficient grounds, disciplinary sanctions may be imposed on the respondent. These may include reprimand, censure, suspension, removal from committee assignments, or other penalties deemed appropriate by the panel. ia/xf
