Suarez calls Senate PI probe a witch-hunt; no witnesses admit bribery

Deputy Speaker David “Jayjay” Suarez said the Senate investigation into the alleged bribery in the People’s Initiative is turning into a witch hunt after the committee failed to secure any testimony supporting bribery claims.

“After two hearings, no witnesses have come forward to say that they received money or were bribed to sign the petition calling for Charter Amendments. Nakakahiya na tuluy-tuloy pa rin ang imbestigasyon kahit lahat ng testigong iniharap nila sa pagdinig ay nagsasabing hindi sila nabayaran,” Suarez said.

The congressman from Quezon appealed to the Senate to refocus their attention on the discussion and expedited approval of the Resolution of Both Houses aimed at amending economic provisions in the Constitution.

“The continuation of this investigation in Davao City, which paralleled the outcome of the Manila hearings with no witnesses confirming the bribery allegations, raises serious questions about the substance and direction of this inquiry,” Suarez said.

Suarez expressed his concerns regarding the resources and time devoted to an investigation that has yet to yield substantial evidence.

“While it is crucial to investigate any allegations of misconduct, especially those that could affect constitutional processes, the consistent lack of corroborative testimonies suggests that this investigation may not be the best use of our legislative body’s time and resources,” he said.

“Sa Maynila man o sa Davao, ang parati nating naririnig mula sa mga testigo ay ang salitang ‘wala’. Mahirap talagang ipilit kung wala talagang natanggap,” he said.

He highlighted the importance of focusing on more pressing issues facing the nation, saying, “The absence of evidence across multiple sessions suggests we may be pursuing a path that diverts us from more pressing national issues. “It’s time to prioritize and address the critical needs of our country.”

Suarez emphasized the importance of the Senate to start next week on their proposed constitutional amendments which aim to relax economic restrictions and attract more foreign investments.

“The Resolution of Both Houses filed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri presents a significant opportunity to boost our economy by opening up to foreign investors. This is a crucial step towards economic growth and national development. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to expedite the discussion and approval of these amendments.”

He highlighted the potential benefits of these amendments, including job creation, technological advancement, and increased global competitiveness.

“Focusing on these economic reforms will have a direct and positive impact on our people’s lives, offering them better employment opportunities and improving the overall economic health of our nation.”

Suarez reiterated his call for the Senate to bring the investigation to a close and redirect its efforts towards economic reforms.

“I respectfully request that we shift our collective focus to enhancing our economic framework. Let’s channel our energies into actions that will strengthen our economy and secure a better future for the Filipino people,” he said.