28/05/2026
One Rule For Allies, Another For Opponents: The Clear Double Standard In The Senate
Consistency is the true measure of integrity, yet in Philippine politics, principles often shift depending on which side of the political fence you stand on. A clear example of this double standard is seen in Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan’s opposing stands on remote Senate participation—one in 2020, and another in 2026.
Back in 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Senate rules were adjusted to allow sessions via teleconferencing. At that time, Senator Leila de Lima had already been detained for years on charges she called politically motivated. Pangilinan publicly urged his colleagues to let her join sessions through video call, arguing that doing so would let her fulfill her duty to her constituents. “She should be allowed to continuously perform her mandate and serve the Filipino people,” he insisted, framing it as a matter of upholding the right of representation, regardless of circumstance.
Fast forward to 2026, and the situation is almost identical—except the lawmaker asking for accommodation is from the opposing camp. Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa sought permission to cast votes and join proceedings electronically, as he faced legal hurdles that kept him away from the Senate floor. This time, however, Pangilinan strongly opposed the move. He argued that rules only allow remote participation during national emergencies or calamities like the pandemic, and that changing them now would be bending the law for convenience.
The contradiction is impossible to miss. Both cases involve a senator unable to attend sessions physically, both asking to use technology to fulfill their mandate. In 2020, the priority was service and representation; in 2026, suddenly, strict compliance with rules became the only thing that mattered. What changed was not the principle, nor the rules, nor the situation—only the political affiliation of the person asking.
This is exactly what turns people off from politics: leaders who do not stand for what is right, but only for their own party or allies. When you apply one standard to your side and another to your opponents, you lose credibility. Principles should stay the same, whether it is your friend or your rival seeking fair treatment.
True leadership means being consistent in word and deed. When you contradict your own words just for party loyalty, you are no longer serving the people—you are only serving your own group.
Bilyonaryong Mani Media Network – Independent views, no bias, no factions. We judge actions and words, not colors or parties.
