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During the session, Senate President Tito Sotto advised Discaya to invoke his legislative immunity to be able to freely disclose supposed payoffs he made for some of their projects.

Discaya initially invoked his right to self-incrimination, but he was advised by Senate President Tito Sotto to rather invoke his legislative immunity instead.

“You have legislative immunity; do not be afraid. If you speak at a hearing, you can invoke legislative immunity. Speak up, do not mention self-incrimination,” explained Sotto.

“There is such a thing inherent in committees, which is what we call legislative immunity. If there is something you want to confess, say it. They cannot use it against you if you said it in a hearing,” he added.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also noted that the “protection” lies with their oaths to tell the truth.

Later on, Hernandez had also requested for legislative immunity when asked for his role in conducting ghost projects.

Blue Ribbon Committee Chairperson Senator Panfilo Lacson had left the decision up to the members and reminded Hernandez that the immunity only applied if he was telling the truth.

Hernandez noted that he was unable to request immunity from the House previously, as he was not aware of it.

“As long as you will say the truth, like what our chair said… If we find out and discover that you are lying, we will take it back,” said Senator JV Ejercito.

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is a permanent investigative body of the Philippine Senate. It was formally established in 1992 to investigate alleged wrongdoings of government personnel and agencies. Its mandate is to look into matters relating to corruption, inefficiency, and waste of public funds.

Department of Public Works and Highways

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of national infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and flood control systems. It was formally established in 1899 and has since played a central role in the country’s physical development and public works projects.

Bulacan first district

The First District of Bulacan is a legislative district in the Philippines, established to represent its constituents in the House of Representatives. It is composed of the City of Malolos, a historically significant area that served as the capital of the First Philippine Republic in 1899. This district is therefore deeply connected to the nation’s struggle for independence and its birth as a republic.

Senate President Tito Sotto

Senate President Tito Sotto is not a place or cultural site, but a prominent Filipino politician. He served as the Senate President of the Philippines from 2018 to 2022 and had a long career in public service, first gaining fame as a television host and comedian before entering politics.

Senator Risa Hontiveros

Senator Risa Hontiveros is not a place or cultural site, but a prominent Filipino politician and public health advocate. She has served as a senator in the Philippines since 2016 and is known for her progressive legislation on women’s rights, health, and social justice. Her “history” is that of a long-time activist and journalist who became a key opposition figure in national politics.

Blue Ribbon Committee Chairperson Senator Panfilo Lacson

This refers to a political role rather than a place or cultural site. Senator Panfilo Lacson chaired the Philippine Senate’s Blue Ribbon Committee, which is the primary investigative body tasked with probing matters of public interest. His chairmanship was notable for its investigations into government corruption and anomalies.

House

A house is a universal form of dwelling that has evolved from basic shelters for protection into permanent structures that serve as homes. Historically, its design and construction have been shaped by local materials, climate, and cultural practices, from ancient mud-brick buildings to modern suburban homes. It remains a fundamental unit of society, representing shelter, family, and personal identity.

Senator JV Ejercito

Senator JV Ejercito is not a place or cultural site, but a Filipino politician. He is a former senator and the current mayor of San Juan City, known for being the son of former President Joseph Estrada. His political career has focused on public service and legislation, particularly in areas of housing and urban development.