San Fernando criticizes ‘no work, no pay’ exemption for elected officials

KAMANGGAGAWA Partylist Rep. Elijah “Eli” San Fernando has voiced strong criticism over the exemption of elected officials from the “no work, no pay” principle, particularly in light of reports that Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa continued to receive his full salary despite repeated absences from Senate sessions and official duties.

San Fernando emphasized the stark contrast between the strict application of the “no work, no pay” policy for ordinary workers and the apparent lack of accountability for powerful politicians who fail to fulfill their responsibilities.

“For ordinary workers, it’s ‘no work, no pay.’ But then there are Congressmen and Senators like Bato Dela Rosa who don’t show up for work and don’t fulfill their duties, yet they still receive their full salary,” San Fernando stated.

He argued that Senate leadership cannot hide behind technicalities to justify absenteeism, pointing out that the absence of a written “no work, no pay” policy in the rules should not excuse elected officials from their obligation to serve the public.

San Fernando warned that such practices fuel public anger and mistrust toward government institutions, especially at a time when workers are struggling to make ends meet while officials enjoy privileged treatment regardless of performance.

San Fernando directly challenged Senator Dela Rosa to demonstrate the accountability he often espouses, urging him to attend Senate sessions and address the issues he is facing. He also reminded workers that their loyalty should lie with their fellow workers, not with politicians who fail to uphold their responsibilities.