STATEMENT OF SENATOR FRANCIS “KIKO” PANGILINAN ON OPENING BICAMERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS TO THE PUBLIC

July 3, 2025
The passage of a law is one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to us as legislators.

It demands not just wisdom and integrity—but transparency.


We already open our plenary debates to the public.

We livestream committee hearings.

We defend budget proposals line by line before our people.


But one critical part of the legislative process remains hidden: the bicameral conference committee.


This is where the final version of a law is decided.

Where provisions can be added, deleted, or changed.

And yet, it happens behind closed doors.


I believe it’s time we change that.


I support the call to open bicameral proceedings to the public.


Laws affect lives.

The process of shaping them should not be shrouded in secrecy.


If there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear. Laws should not be rewritten in the shadows.


Let the public see.

Let them understand how laws are crafted.

Let us uphold transparency not only in principle—but in practice.


No to secret amendments. Yes to public oversight.

No to closed-door decision-making. Yes to accountability.


We serve the people.

And the people deserve to see how we serve.