BENGZON VS THE SENATE BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE

FACTS

A civil case was filed by the Republic of the Philippines represented by PCGG against Benjamin
Romualdez. The complaint alleged that Benjamin Romualdez and Juliette Gomez Romualdez, taking
undue advantage of their relationship, influence and connection with the spouses, Ferdinand Marcos and
Imelda R. Marcos engaged in schemes for their self-aggrandizement at the expense of the Republic of
the Philippines and the Filipino people. One newspapers reported that after the 1986 EDSA Revolution,
the companies of Romualdez were sold for P5 million, without PCGG approval, to a holding company
controlled by Romualdez, and that Ricardo Lopa, the Presidents brother-in-law, had effectively taken
over the firm.

The Senate Minority Floor Leader, Hon. Enrile, delivered a speech on the alleged take over
personal privilege by Lopa of SOLOIL Incorporated, the flagship of the First Manila Management of
Companies owned by Romualdez. Senator Enrile also called upon the Senate to look into the possible
violation of the law, particularly with regard to RA 3019, The Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The
matter was referred by the Senate to the Blue Ribbon Committee.

ISSUE

Whether or not the Senate Blue Ribbon Committees inquiry has valid legislative purpose as mandated by
Art. VI, Sec. 21

HELD

The Constitution expressly recognizes the power of both Houses of Congress to conduct inquiries in aid
of legislation. But the power of both Houses of Congress to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation is not
absolute or unlimited. As provided under Art. VI, Sec. 21, the investigation must be in aid of legislation in
accordance with its duly published rules of procedure and that the rights of persons appearing in or
affected by such inquiries shall be respected. It follows then that the rights of persons under the Bill of
Rights must be respected, including the right to due process and the right not to be compelled to testify
against ones self. The power to conduct formal inquiries or investigations is specifically provided in the
Senate Rules of Procedure. Such inquiries may refer to the implementation or re-examination of any law
or in connection with any proposed legislation or the formulation of future legislation. They may also
extend to any and all matters vested by the Constitution in Congress and/or in the Senate alone.