Diokno: Senate's independence still uncertain
Otso Diretso senatorial candidate Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno believes it is premature to expect that the Senate in the 18th Congress would be independent as the composition of the Upper Chamber remains uncertain until the May 13 elections next week.
“I think this coming elections will determine whether the Senate will be independent or not,” Diokno, son of the late Sen. Jose W. Diokno told editors and staff of the Manila Bulletin during the MB Hot Seat roundtable discussion.
“Because the majority of those likely to get elected belong to the administration. If you go by how they have campaigned, they would support any moves by the President,” Diokno said.
“Which means, issues like federalism
and other major issues will probably get through the Senate if that happens,” he said.
That is why, Diokno said, members of the ‘Otso Diretso’ senatorial slate are doing their best to up the ante of their campaign before next week’s polls.
“On the other hand, if you have people coming from the opposition in the Senate, then we can have a better check on the Executive,” Diokno, a founding dean of the De La Salle College of Law pointed out.
“It remains to be seen what the composition of the Senate would be in the coming elections,” the human rights lawyer and chair of the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) said.
For the most part, the opposition slate is mustering up support of various groups and sectors who believe in the advocacies of the ‘Otso Diretso.’
For one, Diokno said he is elated to get the support of celebrity host and actress Kris Aquino, sister of former President Benigno Aquino III, who has openly endorsed his candidacy.
“(Her) support was a surprise to me as well. And I am happy that there are celebrities as well lending a hand to our campaign, one way or the other,” he said.
Diokno, likewise, downplayed any rift among the candidates of the ‘Otso Diretso’ saying those who are wondering why they hardly go together as a group should understand it is also part of their strategy and logistical plans.
He said Senator Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV and former senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas II are already well-known and that leaves other senatorial candidates to do their own campaign strategy to raise public awareness.
Diokno, likewise, confirmed “Otso Diretso” will have their final rally on Wednesday, May 8 at the University of the Philippines (UP) Sunken Garden.
Among those expected to attend the event are fellow opposition candidates – Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc, former Rep. Erin Tanada, former solicitor general Florin Hilbay and election lawyer Romulo Macalintal.