Pimentel to De Lima: If you are detained, you cannot do some things

De Lima requested to participate in Senate sessions, particularly in the deliberations of measures. However, Pimentel said that according to Senate rules she had to be present to be able to interpellate, debate and vote. (Photo: Philippine News Agency)

MANILA– Senate Pres. Aquilino Pimentel III on Monday reminded Sen. Leila de Lima of her limitations as a detained lawmaker following her request to join voting on landmark measures.

De Lima requested to participate in Senate sessions, particularly in the deliberations of measures. However, Pimentel said that according to Senate rules she had to be present to be able to interpellate, debate and vote.

On the other hand, she did not need to be present to file resolutions and bills.

“The rule of the Senate is your presence is required for you to vote. If you are under detention, you ask temporary permission to leave your detention place to vote,” Pimentel told reporters in an interview.

“…Detention says you accept the reality that if you detained, you cannot do some things,” he added.

He said that it would still be up to the courts to decide on De Lima’s request.

“…The courts can be convinced of having a new way of looking at a circumstance. Through motions,” the senator said.

The legal team of detained Sen. De Lima is currently studying legal options for her to be allowed to attend sessions at the Senate.

She is currently detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City for drug trafficking charges.