Bernadette Tamayo
October 1, 2010
People’s Journal

SEN. Francis Pangilinan expressed concern over the Supreme Court’s parallel investigation into the bar blast that occurred at DeLa Salle University on Taft Avenue.

The body is reportedly headed by a Supreme Court justice.

“While we welcome the intention of getting to the bottom of the tragic incident, we caution the investigating body created to tread carefully as it proceeds with its investigation,” Pangilinan said.

”If it recommends the filing of criminal cases, can a lower court act independently and impartially? Can a lower court disregard the committee’s findings? Will the accused be deprived of the right to an impartial trial, considering that no less than a body headed by a justice of the Supreme Court had recommended the filing of criminal charges?” he asked.

Pangilinan urged the committee to look deeper into the legal implications and ramifications that come with the work, its findings and recommendations.

The senator meanwhile lauded the Senate for adopting Resolution 53 as amended which authorizes the live  streaming of selected proceedings in the plenary and the hearings and meetings of the Senate committees.

“We welcome this development, this will be a major step towards accountability and transparency in government, both of which the Aquino administration espouses,” said Pangilinan,  who authored the bill.

“Livestreaming will enable our countrymen to participate in governance and be informed of how their elected officials do their duty to country and fellowmen. It also brings our OFWs closer to their countrymen as they can easily access the proceedings wherever internet is available,” Pangilinan said.

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