Officials skip Senate hearing on Duterte arrest citing executive privilege

Administration officials, citing executive privilege, skipped the second Senate hearing concerning the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin communicated this decision in a letter, stating that officials had already provided sufficient answers and that sensitive matters are protected by executive privilege.

Bersamin explained that the invitation included topics likely covered by executive privilege, justifying their absence.

Despite Senator Imee Marcos's plea for reconsideration, asserting that executive privilege cannot be a blanket shield against Senate inquiries, the officials maintained their stance.

Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed receiving Bersamin's letter, which reiterated that executive privilege applies due to the separation of powers between co-equal branches of government.

Escudero also mentioned receiving this letter after he signed subpoenas for some Air Force officials requested by the committee chair, Senator Imee Marcos.