"I laud my colleague's initiative in submitting himself to an investigation."
"I laud my colleague's initiative in submitting himself to an investigation."Deputy Minority Leader Aniceto Bertiz III has been on the receiving end of public criticism after CCTV footage of him displaying unruly behavior toward security personnel at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 went viral. The video showed Bertiz defying security protocol at the airport.
Aware of his inappropriate behavior, Bertiz immediately delivered a public apology.
As the Minority Leader, I recognize my colleague’s significant contribution to the Minority group since the start of the 17th Congress. However, we in the Minority do not condone such a misconduct. This was not the first time Rep. Bertiz found himself in hot water due to his inappropriate words and actions.
As public officials, we are reminded by this incident that we must adhere to Republic Act No. 6713, or the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.” As members of the Lower House, we must adhere to the Code of Conduct established by the Rules of the House of Representatives under Rule XIX. Nobody is perfect, but as public servants, we must be more mindful of our words and actions; and we should set the right example to our fellow Filipinos.
While I am disappointed at this incident involving one of my trusted colleagues in the Minority, I laud his initiative in submitting himself to an investigation of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges through filing of a resolution. House Resolution No. 2212 directs the Committee to inquire into the incident that transpired on 29 September 2018 at the NAIA Terminal 2, Pasay City, involving Cong. Bertiz and the security personnel of the airport.
Yesterday, the Committee on Ethics and Privileges chaired by Rep. Delphine Gan-Lee began its investigation of the case of Rep. Bertiz. This gave him an opportunity to go through due process; and this also enlightened the public of what truly transpired in the said incident. We trust that the Committee’s decision will be fair and just.
While Bertiz must deal with the consequences of his actions, what happened is also a reminder to him and to all of us that if we commit something wrong, we must sincerely apologize and move forward without forgetting the lesson learned. We should see each day as an opportunity to improve, and to be better and more decent individuals.