MANILA — The Senate can compel a member to attend sessions only if their vote is deemed crucial, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said, noting that the chamber generally respects individual decisions on attendance.

“Kung kailangan ang boto niya at mahalaga, puwedeng i-mando ng Senate President para pabotohin siya (If his vote is needed and is important, the Senate President may order him to come in to vote),” Sotto said in a Zoom interview with the media.

He clarified that this authority cannot be exercised if a senator is abroad, noting that the Senate no longer requires prior approval for personal travel.

“Inalis na ’yan. Wala kaming rule na kailangan ng permiso para umalis (That was removed. We have no rule requiring permission to leave),” he said, adding that only official trips require a letter of authority.

Asked about the continued absence of Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Sotto said he has not compelled him to attend, stressing that accountability ultimately rests with the elected official.

“Managot siya sa mga bumoto sa kanya (He is accountable to those who voted for him),” he said.

Sotto added that De la Rosa’s office continues to function despite his absence, with staff submitting inputs on measures under deliberation. He also noted that legislative operations remain unaffected, and the Senate has not faced quorum issues in plenary sessions, committees, or bicameral conferences even without De la Rosa.

(PNA)