Newly elected Senate President Francis Escudero wants the upper chamber to keep embracing the digital age, advocating for the digitization of all legislative records, including laws enacted before 1987.
In a recent meeting with the Senate Legislative Records and Archives Services (LRAS), Escudero underscored the necessity of this initiative.
“It’s crucial that we digitize not only the laws from 1987 onwards, but also earlier legislation,” he emphasized.
The digital overhaul aims to make Senate journals and transcripts more accessible to historians, researchers, and the general public.
Escudero also directed the development of a tracking system or app for at least 100 major laws, such as the Labor Code, National Integrated Protected Areas System Act (NIPAS), Intellectual Property Law, and Local Government Code, to allow easier tracking of amendments.
“Tell me what you need to make that happen,” Escudero urged LRAS officials and staff, showcasing his hands-on approach and commitment to modernizing Senate operations.
Since his election as Senate President, Escudero has been conducting comprehensive visits across Senate offices to address the needs of employees and enhance operational efficiency.
During these visits, he has engaged in informal dialogues with staff, recognizing the importance of improved equipment and facilities, such as air conditioning, despite budget constraints.
“Just like when I served as governor, this is also my job as Senate President,” he explained. “I consider myself as the administrative head of the Senate. It’s right to visit, know what every office is doing, and their needs to further improve their services.”
After completing two consecutive terms in the Senate from 2007 to 2019, Escudero served as governor of Sorsogon province from 2019 to 2022. He made a successful return to the Senate with his term set to expire in 2028.
