Several House leaders have called on lawmakers to use congressional proceedings responsibly and avoid turning privilege speeches into platforms for personal attacks and unverified allegations against government officials.
The appeal came after Batangas Rep. Leandro Legarda Leviste delivered a privilege speech accusing Executive Secretary Ralph Recto of allegedly receiving money linked to infrastructure contractors and election-related activities.
In an interview, Bacolod City Rep. Albee Benitez said Congress should prioritize addressing the country’s pressing issues instead of allowing politics to dominate legislative discussions.
“I don’t really subscribe to the idea of using the platform to hit any person in government or any agency in government,” Benitez said.
He stressed that lawmakers should focus on crafting solutions and policies that would help the country progress and remain competitive with its Asian neighbors.
Benitez also expressed concern that excessive political conflict within institutions could slow down development and distract lawmakers from more urgent national concerns.
The controversy stemmed from Leviste’s privilege speech, where he made allegations involving Recto and other public officials. Leviste later clarified some of his earlier remarks, including statements suggesting that all members of Congress were involved in vote-buying during the 2025 elections.
Following the speech, House leaders criticized what they described as reckless and unsupported accusations delivered on the plenary floor without documentary evidence, sworn statements, or formal complaints filed before the proper forum.
The House later approved a motion to strike portions of Leviste’s speech from the congressional record.
Other lawmakers also emphasized that privilege speeches should be grounded in verified information and conducted with fairness and respect toward fellow public officials.
Meanwhile, several Batangas lawmakers filed a House resolution condemning the allegations against Recto and his wife, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, arguing that parliamentary immunity should not be used to spread speculation and unsubstantiated claims.