Capitol SP firms up etiquette rules
Expect more good manners and right conduct inside the session hall of the Iloilo Sanggunian Panlalawigan (SP).
This, after an amendment was pushed on the Internal Rules here addressing the issue on decorum.
Contained in Committee Report No. 01-08, the Committee on Rules and Privileges, Ethics and Accountability moved for its adoption following hearings led by First District Board Member Richard Garin.
"It has been observed that during the deliberations of this August Body, there are unnecessary noises caused by the public in attendance and the ringing of cellular phones which are inimical to the peaceful and orderly conduct of the proceedings. As the highest legislative body of the Province, the Sanggunian deserves to be accorded due respect while it is conducting its regular proceedings by observing decorum while attending the same," excerpts of the report went.
As such, all statements, discussion and debate will only be addressed to the Presiding Officer. SP members thereat may only address the other upon the Presiding Officer's consent. While at it, official title or as "The Honorable Gentleman or Lady" as the case may be must be used.
No member shall also walk out of or cross the session hall when the Presiding Officer is talking.
And no member shall also be allowed to use vulgar language and "personalities."
Dress code remains to be formal making Barong Filipino or coat and tie for the men and Filipiniana dress or business suit for women.
Further still, all SP members as well as those present during the sessions and committee hearings will strictly be under a "silent" rule.
Refrain from making unnecessary noise, the decorum ruling now provides. Silent-mode cellular phones too while inside.
"For this purpose, a sergeant-at-arms shall be designated from among the staff of the SP secretariat," the report went.
Today's session will be held in Ajuy, Iloilo for the 9th SP's first out-of-town session.