Manila: A fellow Mindanaoan lawmaker has challenged fugitive Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa to be courageous enough to attend the expected Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. In a statement, House of Representatives trial spokesperson, Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur, emphasized the importance of physical presence in legislative proceedings, highlighting Dela Rosa's previous determination during the recent Senate leadership vote.

According to Philippines News Agency, Adiong, who serves as a House Assistant Majority Leader and chair of the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms, recalled an incident where Dela Rosa injured himself while evading National Bureau of Investigation agents. The agents were attempting to arrest him based on a warrant from the International Criminal Court. Adiong praised Dela Rosa's commitment during that event and urged him to demonstrate the same dedication in attending the impeachment trial.

Adiong stressed that such commitment should be consistent across all legislative work, not just during significant leadership changes. He expressed concern that relying on virtual participation and online voting could diminish legislators' commitment and the public's trust in their representatives. Adiong emphasized the importance of being physically present to meticulously examine proposals, particularly in critical matters such as impeachment.

The spokesperson reiterated that the public expects their elected officials to be present and actively participate in legislative duties, underscoring the significance of maintaining trust and confidence in the legislative process.