MIRIAM ON . . . .

World Bank Scandal

Political society and media are divided into pro-Gloria and anti-Gloria camps. I am an administration ally. This does not necessarily mean that I would place my judicial reputation at stake in order to unreasonably defend her husband.

I am now attacked by the anti-Gloria forces and their PR firms, simply because I am trying to enforce the Rules of Evidence. Gee, I must be effective. The Tagalog saying is: "People throw stones only at trees which bear fruits."

My attitude is that, I am only collateral damage. I am amused by the sudden emergence of experts who are not even lawyers, all expressing opinions on the Rules of Evidence. They are like butchers inside the operating room, advising the surgeon on how to conduct brain surgery. My response to critics is: "Too many cooks spoil the broth."

Committee Hearing on Smith Detention

This will be conducted on Thursday, 26 February, by the Committee on Foreign Relations, which I chair. The committee will consult experts consisting of international law experts from the academe, and other fields. We have requested them to advice the committee on the steps that could be taken by the Philippine government to implement the Supreme Court decision that RP-US should immediately negotiate the transfer of Smith from the US embassy premises to Philippine jail premises.

My Sick Leave

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) lasts for some six months. This present CFS episode began in December. For this reason, I am marked "on sick leave" during session days. However, I shall continue to preside at public hearings of my committees, to avoid speculation that I might be avoiding controversial issues.

On session days, my staff requests certain senators who are available and willing, to read into the records my interpellation on bills.