MANILA, Philippines — A total of 19 senators have signed a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that absolute parliamentary immunity for speeches delivered in the Senate must be upheld and protected at all times. Senate Resolution 697 was apparently prepared by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, who is facing a charge of inciting to sedition based on a privilege speech he delivered in October last year. Under the resolution, it was noted that the immunity of legislators from suit based on speeches delivered while Congress is in session is guaranteed under the Constitution. The resolution cited a number of cases where the immunity of legislators was upheld and its purpose justified. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III did not sign the resolution because he was not able to read it.

Source: Philippine Star March 21, 2018 15:45 UTC