The Fundamental Purpose of Legislation
In the First Session of the 19th Congress a preposterous bill declaring ghosting as an emotional offense, filed by Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves, Jr., caught the attention of social media. To understand its absurdity I had to first educate myself what the word “ghosting” means- a term that apparently originated only in the early 2000s pertaining to dating relationships. Further investigation led me to discover that the same legislator was in fact the one who also filed the bill to rename Ninoy Aquino International Airport into Ferdinand E. Marcos Airport. Very clearly, we have here the case of a duly elected representative using the powers vested upon him by his constituents on the wrong priorities, amidst the present-day problems afflicting the country today.
In contrast, however, we have Senator Risa Hontiveros who, from the Congress to the Senate has used the power of legislation to its fullest extent as shown by her record of championing causes for the most vulnerable sectors of society. She has made a mark for herself as an outstanding legislator through such laws as the Cheaper Medicines Law, the Extended Maternity Leave Law and the Solo Parents Welfare Act.
By all counts the electorate knows what good representation looks like, and beyond the conduct of elections, it is our duty to make our elected representatives accountable for their actions, and how they truly are able to speak and give a voice to the genuine concerns of the people who have voted for them. The fundamental purpose of legislation is to aid the executive branch of government in pursuing the people’s agenda, through enacting laws and policies that truly reflect their needs and interests.
May the likes of Senator Risa Hontiveros increase.
QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:
“And how about doing the job we hired you gentlemen and ladies for? Start doing it by reading the legislation you pass. If you don’t know what it says, don’t vote for it.” ― Kenneth Eade
FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:
“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” - Matthee 23:11