Senate President Francis Escudero has called on the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to take a more active role in shaping legislation, highlighting its responsibility to defend laws in the Supreme Court.
Escudero issued the statement Friday when he delivered a keynote address for the 123rd founding anniversary of the OSG with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in attendance at the Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.
The Senate President suggested that the OSG’s early involvement in the legislative process could help prevent constitutional challenges.
“This will avoid potential constitutional issues,” he said, commending Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra’s leadership and urging the office to innovate and adapt to new challenges.
Escudero proposed regular consultations with the OSG to provide legal insights on pending legislation. He said this approach would help craft laws that are robust and less likely to face legal obstacles.
The OSG should broaden its scope and help shape the nation’s future by going beyond its traditional role as the government’s chief legal defender, according to the Senate President.
In addition to its legislative advisory role, Escudero emphasized the importance of the OSG in handling foreign policy and international disputes. He advocated for the OSG to actively file cases that seek recognition of foreign judgments or arbitral rulings favorable to the Philippines.
Escudero also recommended an expanded role for the OSG in resolving disputes between government agencies before they escalate to the courts.
He suggested that the OSG should handle settlements involving various agencies, including government-owned and controlled corporations, to avoid the costly and time-consuming process of litigation.
Escudero also pledged his support for Guevarra in his goal of securing a dedicated building for the OSG, indicating a commitment to enhancing the office’s capabilities and resources.
