With my recent recommendation for confirmation to the Senate plenary of the Commission on Appointments, I have been continuously asked, especially during media interviews, what I think of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s reaction towards my endorsement and have been, I feel, relentlessly prodded to say something adverse towards the Senator.

I have nothing ill to say about Sen. Santiago. I respect and recognize her right to perform her fiscalizing role.

Hence, I appeal to the public in general and the media in particular, please do not pit Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and me against each other.

The check and balance in our democracy is strengthened because of her diligence. Her independence of mind and determination to seek truth are appreciated by many including myself.

I continue to pray for her good health. ###