House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos filed House Bill 7432 on January 27 to institutionalize a 'no work, no pay' policy for Congress members, ensuring salaries are paid only to those fulfilling their duties. The measure addresses concerns over prolonged absences by some lawmakers, including Sen. Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa.
On January 27, House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos introduced House Bill 7432 to establish a 'no work, no pay' compensation system for members of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The bill's explanatory note states, 'By mandating that salary and other emoluments be tied to attendance and participation in plenary sessions, committee hearings, and other official functions, the measure promotes transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance.'
Lawmakers currently receive around P290,000 to P330,000 monthly, excluding allowances. If enacted, the law would link full pay to attendance at plenary sessions and official duties, with deductions for unexcused absences from committee hearings or other activities.
Excused absences would cover medically certified illnesses, official representations approved by chamber leaders, authorized travel or missions, and approved leaves. Attendance at the Commission on Appointments, House Electoral Tribunal, or bicameral committees would count as present, as would official missions. Each chamber's secretariat would track daily attendance, making records publicly available for transparency.
Violators falsifying records or claiming undue pay could face disciplinary actions like suspension or expulsion for misconduct. The proposal responds to extended absenteeism, notably by Sen. Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, absent since November 11, 2025, amid an ICC arrest warrant tied to former President Rodrigo Duterte's crimes against humanity charges. Last year, senators noted the chamber lacks a 'no work, no pay' policy even without formal excuses. Sen. Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson suggested suspending Dela Rosa's pay pending a Civil Service Law review, especially with an ethics complaint pending.
