MANILA, Philippines — The Mayors for Good Governance on Monday questioned the prolonged absence of Sen. Ronald dela Rosa from Senate sessions, saying ordinary workers will face penalties for the same conduct while still receiving government pay.
In a statement issued on Monday, the group said dela Rosa was allegedly absent for about seven months before appearing again on May 14, 2026 to vote in the change of Senate leadership.
The organization claimed the senator continued receiving an estimated monthly salary of around P300,000, which it said could already total about P2.1 million during the period of absence.
“For Filipino workers, the rule is ‘no work, no pay.’ If an ordinary employee did this, whether in government or the private sector, he would surely face suspension or dismissal from work. Why does the law seem different when powerful officials are involved?” the group said.
The group said such alleged neglect of duty was unacceptable for officials being paid by taxpayers while Filipinos continue to face high prices, poverty, and livelihood difficulties.
“It is a huge insult to millions of Filipinos who continue striving and enduring hardships just to support themselves and their families,” the statement read.
The organization also called on senators not to allow the Senate to become “a refuge for absenteeism and cover-ups,” saying elected officials should not be protected while allegedly avoiding their responsibilities and continuing to receive salaries from public funds.
“The lawmakers themselves should lead in following the law, especially the spirit behind why laws were created — for accountability, integrity, and the welfare of the Filipino people,” the group added.