JV Ejercito said he has asked Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to comment on a proposal to amend Senate rules to include a “no work, no pay” policy for absentee lawmakers.
Ejercito, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, confirmed the move after the panel met to discuss pending complaints, including issues related to absenteeism.
He said the committee has acted on the proposal by formally seeking Dela Rosa’s position on the suggested rule change.
The senator acknowledged that enforcing such a policy requires action from the full Senate, noting that amendments to chamber rules must be approved in plenary while Congress is in session.
Ejercito added that they are awaiting Dela Rosa’s response.
Dela Rosa has not attended Senate sessions or made public appearances since November 2025, amid reports that the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him in connection with the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
He is currently facing an ethics complaint over his prolonged absence.
Ejercito said he hopes Dela Rosa would voluntarily forgo his salary and allowances while he remains absent, stressing that the principle of “no work, no pay” should apply equally.
“Para maging patas, sana isakripisyo na lang muna ang sweldo at allowances habang wala siya,” he said.
