Senate issues a range of banned activities during Tuason’s testimony

File Photo by Ryan Leagogo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines – From “rugged looking, ripped or torn jeans” to “non-media violations”   such as fighting, theft and other “unruly behavior” will be strictly prohibited  during the much awaited appearance of “pork” scam suspect-turned-state witness Ruby Tuason at the Senate on Thursday.

In a statement issued ahead of Tuason’s  scheduled appearance before the blue ribbon committee, the Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau (PRIB) advised the media  that the Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) would strictly enforce the “observance” of plenary hall rules.

“Non-media violations such as fighting, theft and other unruly behavior will be subject to the rules and regulations to be enforced, in coordination with PRIB, by the OSAA,” it said.

The PRIB also reminded the media against conducting interviews on the floor when the committee hearing is in progress.

“As a rule, absolute silence in the plenary hall must be observed during the hearing so as not to distract the proceedings while it is in progress. Media practitioners may request interviews through the pages assigned at the session hall,” the PRIB said.

“Reporters who insist on doing stand-up reporting in the plenary hall while session is ongoing shall not be allowed,”said the bureau.

But when statements from the senators are urgently needed, the PRIB said, the area inside the session hall right after the entrance and before the audio room may be used for interviews.

The bureau though highly encouraged media practitioners to use the Sumulong briefing room located near the plenary hall for individual or group interviews.

Media members covering the hearing were also  advised to observe proper dress code and decorum at all times while inside the Senate building.

“Male personnel are required to wear slacks, pants or suit pants, and short or long sleeved polo shirts. Female personnel are required to wear slacks, pants or suit pants, and collared shirts, blouse or classic sleeveless tops with a cardigan or jacket, or knee-length or below-the-knee casual dresses and skirts,” said the statement.

“Decent looking jeans will be allowed for both males and females (no rugged looking, ripped or torn jeans).”

Footwear such as loafers, clogs, boots, flats, dress heels, and leather deck-type shoes will be allowed but rubber shoes and slippers are strictly prohibited, the PRIB added.

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