MANILA, Philippines—Although the Supreme Court did not issue a temporary restraining order, the Senate minority on Friday asked the majority to defer its investigation of the ethics complaint against Sen. Manuel Villar Jr. in deference to the Supreme Court which has been asked to intervene on the matter.

The Senate trial, or adjudicatory hearings, is to commence on Monday.

In a phone interview, Sen. Joker Arroyo said it was incumbent upon the Senate majority to defer the public trial of Villar.

"It doesn't follow that just because there's no TRO, you proceed. The Supreme Court said, 'you file an answer,' but even before you comply... you proceed with the case. That's an act of disrespect for the Supreme Court."

"Effectively, the hearings on June 1 and 4 scheduled by the committee of the whole should, as a matter of course, be deferred. Otherwise, the Supreme Court proceedings would be rendered meaningless," said Arroyo.

Arroyo, a lawyer, said the chamber should exercise caution in handling the ethics complaint lodged against Villar, who is facing a complaint for conflict of interest in connection with the alleged diversion of the C-5 road link project.

"Once the Supreme Court exercises jurisdiction over a case, out of deference to the high court, the parties, exercising abundance of prudence, should refrain from proceeding with the case to enable the court to look into it," said Arroyo.

The senator commended the high court for "acting with commendable speed" on the petition lodged by the Senate minority which assailed the one-sided nature of the ethics investigation.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. also welcomed the Supreme Court order which directed the Senate committee of the whole headed by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile to answer the minority’s petition by June 2.

"It's a step forward at least towards the relief we seek," said Pimentel.

Chairs and tables in the Senate session were rearranged Friday in preparation for Monday's trial.

The Senate committee of the whole has reserved a chair, which will serve as a witness stand, for Villar.

The chair was placed on an elevated platform directly facing the seat of the presiding officer.