Bato, bato, pICC!

The Senate is meant to embody accountability, transparency, and service to the Filipino people. Senators are entrusted with positions capable of shaping not just the nation's policies but also our future. But when a politician fails—or worse, ignores—their responsibilities and fails to serve their duty, they must face scrutiny. And when ignorance and questionable conduct become habitual within the Senate itself, the Senate loses its solemnity, prestige, and credibility. Can we still regard it as the institution it once claimed to be? When it is filled with antics, the high regard for the Senate is reduced to a political theater. Unfortunately, this is the case for the Philippine Senate; the once-trusted institution is composed of figures who had faced various controversies.

A minimum-wage earner may take home between P358 and P695 per day, amounting to at least P7,800 per month. This generous estimate does not account for a worker's absences or tardiness, which often leads to salary deductions or even termination. In stark contrast, Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa earns roughly P300,000 every month, amounting to an estimated P1,800,000 over six months. Despite facing public criticism for repeated absences during sessions, he continues to be compensated generously and retain his position. His case highlights the gap between ordinary Filipino workers and powerful politicians protected by their political alliances.

A recent controversy surrounding the senator drew national headlines following his surprising return to office. When asked why he finally attended, he simply said, "Nahihiya ako." Shortly after, he was met with scrutiny for his disruptive behavior, and allegedly evading the authorities serving him a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Later, in an interview with Jessica Soho, he stated that "Kung hindi ako magpasok, hindi namin makuha yung leadership dahil ako ang pang 13th vote." This statement suggests that his return was driven not by public service but by political preservation.

This raises the question of whether Senator dela Rosa is the problem alone, or the Majority Bloc as a whole. From a broader and systemic perspective, the voters who elected them play a significant role. In an age where information is readily available, failure to understand who deserves our votes becomes an intentional act of political ignorance. Removing the veil of fanaticism takes the strength that many Filipinos lack. It is worth reflecting on how democracy is practiced, when choices are influenced not out of pride, ego, nepotism, or political idolatry; rather, when it is influenced by discernment. Casting our votes must rely on careful research, proper education, and well-informed discussions. Only then can we move toward a responsibly democratic and accountable Philippines.