Sen. Chiz's statement on his absence from the JBC interview

On his absence from the JBC interview today of CJ applicants:

The Supreme Court has already rendered a decision that is immediately executory. We are complying with the decision in the interim, that only one representative should sit for the Philippine Congress in the Judicial and Bar Council.

In the exigency of service that has to be rendered by a member of Congress in an ex-officio capacity, Representative Neil Tupas is tentatively representing the Philippine Congress in the JBC, based on what we have agreed on last night. Whether this is for the whole duration of the interview process for all applicants will be decided by both Chambers.

I will be consulting with Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile on this matter in today's caucus. It will be up to the heads of the House and the Senate to take the appropriate action on what Congress, as one institution, will agree upon regarding this matter.