Bam Aquino: Only an independent Senate can push our country forward

Sen. Bam Aquino. INQUIRER.net file photo / CATHY MIRANDA

MANILA, Philippines — Only an independent Senate that is not subservient to anyone and will work for the interest of the Filipino people could push the country forward, Sen. Bam Aquino said on Wednesday.

“Kung ang Senado ay sunud-sunuran lamang sa kagustuhan ng administrasyon, walang pipigil sa mga polisiya na nagnanais taasan ang buwis ng mga mamamayan, mga batas na nagpapataas ng presyo ng mga bilihin,” Aquino, who is running for re-election under the Otso Diretso coalition, said in a statement.

He added that an independent Senate would prevent the passage of any law that would be detrimental to the welfare of the public, like the controversial Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law; would ensure check and balance between branches of government; and would serve as watchdog against corruption.

“Ang isang independent Senate ay magbabantay laban sa mga magnanakaw sa pamahalaan at maniniguro na ang mga ito’y mapaparusahan,” Aquino added.

Attempts to change the 1987 Constitution to allow the removal of term limits of elected officials and change the system of government to fit a certain political agenda will also have no chance under an independent Senate, according to the lawmaker.

As a first-termer senator for almost six years, Aquino said he ushered the passage of 40 laws, including the landmark Free College Law that he pushed as a principal sponsor during his time as chairman of the Senate committee on education. /jpv