Resolution Authorizing and Directing the Filing of the Appropriate Petition in the Supreme Court to Assert the Power of the Senate in Inquiries in Aid of Legislation as Provided under Article VI, Section 21 of the Constitution

November 9, 2021

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 131

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE FILING OF THE APPROPRIATE PETITION IN THE SUPREME COURT TO ASSERT THE POWER OF THE SENATE IN INQUIRIES IN AID OF LEGISLATION AS PROVIDED UNDER ARTICLE VI, SECTION 21 OF THE CONSTITUTION

WHEREAS, Article VI, Section 21 of the Constitution provides, in part, "[T]he Senate or the House of Representatives or any of its respective committees may conduct inquiries in aid of legislation in accordance with its duly published rules of procedure";

WHEREAS, on October 4, 2021, the Executive Secretary issued a memorandum directing all officials and employees of the Executive Department to "stop attending the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearings on the 2020 Commission on Audit Report effective immediately";

WHEREAS, it is the inherent right and solemn duty of the Senate to preserve, uphold and protect its and its committees' constitutional mandate to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation, including the power to issue compulsory processes, and to accordingly seek judicial relief and affirmation of its rights and prerogatives under the Constitution if and when challenged or interfered with by any branch, department, agency, or instrumentality of the government or by any individual: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the Philippines, To authorize and direct, as it hereby authorizes and directs, the filing of the appropriate petition in the Supreme Court to assert the power of the Senate in inquiries in aid of legislation.

Adopted,

(SGD.) VICENTE C. SOTTO IIIPresident of the Senate

This Resolution was adopted by the Senate on November 9, 2021.

(SGD.) MYRA MARIE D. VILLARICASecretary of the Senate