Senate orders special envoy to explain alleged deception

Senate President Francis Escudero has issued a show cause order against Special Envoy on Transnational Crime Markus V. Lacanilao, demanding an explanation for alleged deception and false testimony during a Senate inquiry.

Lacanilao has been given five days from receipt of the order to respond, or face potential arrest and detention.

The Senate probe concerns the March 11 arrest and subsequent turnover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity.

The issuance of the show cause order follows a recommendation for contempt citation by the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Escudero stated that this measure is crucial for upholding accountability, transparency, and justice in the Senate's proceedings.