Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on Wednesday, September 10, formally accepted the chairmanship of the Committee on Justice and
Human Rights, which tackles the administration of justice, impeachment proceedings, and the implementation of human rights provisions.
This is not the first time that the senator will hold the committee’s chairmanship, having previously headed it during his first term—from 2001 to 2004.
The appointment reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting civil liberties, and strengthening the country’s justice system.
“Justice is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty to ensure impartiality, integrity, and accountability in our justice system,” he said. “Our laws must be applied fairly and the rights of every Filipino must be respected and protected.”
A lawyer by profession and a veteran legislator, the senator brings with him a wealth of experience in lawmaking, legal reform, and public service, having consistently advocated for transparency, good governance, and the protection of human rights throughout his career.
When he first held the chairmanship of the justice and human rights committee, he pushed for critical reforms—doubling the salaries and beneficiaries of members of the judiciary (RA 9227), additional allowance for prosecutors and personnel at the Department of Justice (RA 10071), and additional P3 billion fund for the judiciary through the Judicial Executive Legislative Advisory and Consultative Council (JELACC).
Under Pangilinan’s leadership this 20th Congress, the committee is expected to prioritize key reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the judicial system, strengthening the independence of the judiciary, and addressing issues of human rights violations and access to justice.
The senator expressed his commitment to working with all stakeholders—including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and fellow legislators—to ensure justice is accessible and equitable for all.