MANILA, Philippines — Nineteen out of 23 senators filed a resolution Wednesday, asserting that the absolute parliamentary immunity for speeches delivered in the upper chamber must be upheld and protected at all times. "The Senate must thwart any attempt to diminish its members' constitutionally guaranteed right to parliamentary immunity and privilege from arrest as it is only with the fullest liberty of speech that legislators can effectively discharge their mandate," the 19 senators wrote. In his speech quoted in the resolution, Trillanes said Duterte himself noted that if more than P40 million was found in his accounts, he could be shot and killed by the soldiers. The magazines will be emptied if you're looking for P40 million, Mr. Duterte," the prosecutor's resolution quoted Trillanes as saying. The senators also insisted that only Congress can discipline its members for unparliamentary conduct or disorderly behavior.

Source: Philippine Star March 21, 2018 13:03 UTC