‘LATE IS LATE’: Iloilo SP defers ‘Congtractors’ speech under new rules

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Iloilo underscored its commitment to legislative discipline and due process after enforcing its newly adopted Internal Rules of Procedure during the 17th regular session on October 21, resulting in the deferral of a privilege speech by 5th District Board Member Rolex Suplico.

Suplico signaled his intent to deliver a privilege speech under Unassigned Business, but fellow 5th District Board Member Nielo Tupas pointed out that the request failed to meet submission deadlines set by the new rules.

Tupas cited Rule 9, Section 2 of the IRP of the 15th SP of Iloilo, which requires that a member must manifest intent to speak by 12 noon the day before the session and submit a copy of the speech to the SP secretary by 11:30 a.m. on the session day.

“The agenda sent yesterday failed to indicate any manifestation of intent to deliver a privilege speech, contrary to the rules,” Tupas said.

“The copy of the privilege speech was received by the secretariat at 12 noon, contrary to the 11:30 a.m. deadline, and the revised version was accepted around 2 p.m. Since the IRP has only been in effect for a month, maybe it was just overlooked, but in the spirit of good governance, we must follow the rule. I suggest we defer it to next week,” he added.

Suplico attributed the delay to a technical issue, explaining that his laptop ran out of battery and he had to go home to retrieve the charger, causing the email containing his speech to be sent around 12 noon, which is 30 minutes late.

He also said he had verbally manifested his intent to speak as early as Monday through his office staff.

Despite the delay, Suplico agreed to defer the delivery of his privilege speech, titled “Congtractors,” to the next session.

Board Member Domingo Distura praised the enforcement of the new rules, saying, “This only shows that democracy is really working in the Sanggunian. So, gentlemen, my salute.”

Distura reminded colleagues that privilege speeches must be based on verified facts and credible sources, citing Section 1, Rule 9 of the IRP.

“While the concerns raised in previous privilege speeches about flood control projects are acknowledged, it is equally important to emphasize that all privilege speeches must be supported by facts, verified data, and credible evidence,” he said.

“Our duty as legislators is not only to respond to issues but also to ensure that our actions are guided by fairness, due process, and respect for verified truth. Proceeding without evidence risks undermining legitimate governance concerns and the credibility of our institutions,” he added.

Board Member June Mondejar, chairperson of the Committee on Infrastructure, also moved to defer discussion on Suplico’s earlier privilege speech about flood control projects until the relevant committee chair and the regular presiding officer are present.

Suplico has previously delivered several privilege speeches in past sessions, including those on vote buying and flood control projects titled “Deluge” and “Lima ka Bagat.”

The council holds its regular sessions every Tuesday afternoon.