Maricel Soriano is included in the PDEA list and has been invited to the Senate for investigation

Maricel Soriano is included in the PDEA list and has been invited to the Senate for investigation

Award-winning actress Maricel Soriano is expected to be present at the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs' hearing regarding the "PDEA Leaks." The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday at 10 AM.

Maricel Soriano

Soriano has confirmed her attendance for the second legislative inquiry, which is being led by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, the chairperson of the Senate panel. The controversy arose from leaked documents allegedly originating from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). These documents implicated several prominent figures, including Soriano and even President Marcos, in illicit drug activities.

According to the leaked documents, Soriano was listed as a target of a planned drug operation at Rockwell. However, the operation did not proceed due to alleged interventions by former Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa and Senator Dela Rosa.

During the first committee hearing, PDEA Director Virgilio Lazo testified that no records of such an operation were found in the agency's official documentation, contradicting the claims made by former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales. Morales had provided testimony based on the leaked 2012 documents that implicated then-Senator (now President) Marcos and Soriano.

What is the purpose of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs' hearing on the "PDEA Leaks"?

The purpose of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs' hearing on the "PDEA Leaks" is to investigate and gather information regarding the alleged leaked documents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). The committee aims to shed light on the authenticity and implications of these leaked documents, which reportedly link high-profile personalities to the illegal drug trade.

By conducting the hearing, the committee seeks to uncover the truth behind the leaked documents and determine if there are any lapses or irregularities within the PDEA or other relevant agencies. The committee's investigation aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and the proper handling of drug-related issues in the country.

Through the hearing, the committee members have the opportunity to question witnesses, gather evidence, and assess the credibility of the leaked documents. The findings and insights from the hearing can guide the committee in formulating recommendations or proposing legislative measures to address any identified issues or concerns related to public order and dangerous drugs.

How will the Senate Committee ensure the transparency and accountability of the PDEA and other relevant agencies during the hearing?

The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs has several mechanisms in place to ensure transparency and accountability during the hearing and in its dealings with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and other relevant agencies. Here are some ways the committee promotes transparency and accountability:

Public Hearing: The committee conducts public hearings, which are open to the public and media. This allows for transparency in the proceedings and ensures that the public can observe the discussions, testimonies, and questioning of witnesses.

Subpoena Powers: The committee has the power to issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the submission of relevant documents. This ensures that key individuals and pertinent records are made available for scrutiny during the hearing.

Questioning and Cross-Examination: Committee members have the opportunity to question witnesses and subject them to cross-examination. This allows for a thorough examination of the issues at hand, ensuring that relevant information is brought to light and inconsistencies or discrepancies are addressed.

Document Review: The committee can request and review pertinent documents, including those from the PDEA and other relevant agencies. This enables the committee to assess the accuracy and veracity of the information presented during the hearing.

Expert Opinions: The committee may invite experts or resource persons who can provide professional insights and opinions on the matters being discussed. This helps ensure that the committee receives well-informed perspectives and analysis.

Reporting and Recommendations: After the hearing, the committee prepares a report summarizing its findings and recommendations. This report is made available to the public and can serve as a basis for further action or legislative measures to promote accountability and transparency within the PDEA and other relevant agencies.

By employing these measures, the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs aims to uphold transparency, accountability, and the proper functioning of the PDEA and other relevant agencies in addressing drug-related issues in the country.

What specific measures does the Senate Committee take to ensure transparency during public hearings?

The Senate Committee takes specific measures to ensure transparency during public hearings. Here are some of the measures they employ:

Open to the Public: Public hearings conducted by the Senate Committee are open to the public, allowing interested individuals, including media representatives, to attend and observe the proceedings. This openness promotes transparency by providing access to information and allowing stakeholders to witness the discussions firsthand.

Live Streaming and Broadcasting: The committee may choose to live stream or broadcast the hearings, making them accessible to a wider audience. This ensures that people who cannot physically attend the hearing can still follow the proceedings and stay informed.

Media Coverage: The committee actively engages with media outlets to ensure that accurate and timely information about the hearings is disseminated to the public. This helps increase transparency by providing comprehensive coverage and analysis of the proceedings.

Publication of Transcripts and Documents: The committee publishes transcripts of the hearings, which include the questions, answers, and statements made during the proceedings. Additionally, relevant documents, such as submissions from witnesses or experts, may also be made available to the public. These publications provide transparency by allowing interested individuals to review the details of the hearings.

Recording and Archiving: The committee keeps a record of the hearings, including audio or video recordings. These recordings serve as an official account of the proceedings and can be referenced for accuracy and transparency purposes.

Compliance with Senate Rules: The committee adheres to the rules and procedures set by the Senate, ensuring that the hearings are conducted in a fair and transparent manner. These rules outline the conduct of the hearings, including guidelines for questioning witnesses, handling evidence, and maintaining decorum.

By implementing these measures, the Senate Committee strives to promote transparency during public hearings, allowing the public to have access to relevant information and fostering accountability in the legislative process.

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