3rd hearing on Rody arrest set; Palace maintains executive privilege

The Senate investigation into the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte continues to broaden, as Sen. Imee Marcos sets a third hearing on April 8.

- By CECILLE SUERTE FELIPE

Tuesday's hearing is set to compel the attendance of executive officials who, on April 3, snubbed the invitation of the Senate foreign relations committee investigating Duterte's arrest and turnover to The Hague.

Absent at the hearing were Secretaries Jesus Crispin Remulla, Jonvic Remulla, Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Enrique Manalo; Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Nicolas Torre III; National Security Adviser Eduardo Año; Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon and Philippine Air Force commanding general Arthur Cordura.

Remulla and Año initially confirmed their attendance, but later declined, Marcos said.

Their absence has compelled Marcos to call-on motion by Sen.

Ronald dela Rosa - for a subpoena to compel attendance or risk contempt.

On Dela Rosa's motion, Marcos agreed to summon the officials from the executive department to help shed light on the legality of Duterte's arrest.

The order has to be approved and signed by Senate President Francis Escudero before its execution.