Senator Robinhood Padilla on Monday said former Presidents should be made presidential advisers as he aired his support to the proposal to give additional benefits to the erstwhile leaders, especially with their continuing sacrifices for the country,
“I am sure they have much to contribute to our nation, even after their terms end,” also said Padilla.
“And it will be up to the sitting President to decide which area they can contribute,” Padilla said.
The senator specifically cited former President Rodrigo Duterte, whom he said can be designated as adviser on law enforcement or on foreign relations.
Senators Christopher Go, Ronald Dela Rosa, Francis Tolentino and Mark Villar jointly filed Senate Bill 1784, also called “Former President Act of 2023.”
Under the measure, former Presidents will be provided staffs, office and protection by the Presidential Security Group (PSG) as may be augmented by the Philippine National Police.
“This will also maintain the dignity of the Office of the President and accord honor to a former President,” Padilla said.
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada said he would inhibit himself if the matter is put to a vote since his father, former President Joseph Estrada, will benefit from it.
The explanatory note of the bill reads that a former president still serves as a representation of the country and contributes insights on nation building and pressing national issues even after stepping down from office.
“Despite the end of their term, they are also expected to perform post-presidential duties such as meeting with foreign and local dignitaries, and attending public events and other social engagements. These duties often require them to employ services of personal staff and maintain private offices,” the senators said.
Under the measure, former presidents would also have the right to choose the head of their own security detail.
Their immediate family would be entitled to at least two personnel to be provided by the PSG for so long as the former president is living.
Further, the bill directs the Office of the President to provide adequate staff and a suitable office space to the former presidents
The former presidents would select their own staff members as well as the place where they will establish their office.
If enacted into law, the measure is expected to benefit former Presidents Joseph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and Rodrigo Duterte.
I fully support the proposal to give additional benefits to former Presidents, especially since their sacrifice for the nation continues,” Padilla said in a statement on Monday.