GMA allies seek SC’s voiding of truth body By Gerry Baldo, Benjamin B. Pulta and Aycth S. de la Cruz 08/13/2010

‘Violates equal protection clause and amends Charter’ GMA allies seek SC’s voiding of truth body By Gerry Baldo, Benjamin B. Pulta and Aycth S. de la Cruz 08/13/2010 Members of the House minority bloc yesterday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to nullify the creation of the Truth Commission through Executive Order (EO) 1, on the ground that its establishment is unconstitutional. This is the third EO issued by President Aquino, through his Executive Secretary that is being challenged before the high court. Earlier, EO 2 and 3, seeking the dismissal of Palace-claimed appointees and the nullification of an Arroyo issued EO granting government lawyers career executive officer status, have also been questioned before the high court. Minority leader and Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman and three other senior lawmakers, in a 55-page petition for Certiorari and Prohibition, challenged the constitutionality of EO 1 which formed the “Truth Commission” with Palace-designated head, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. They asked the SC to issue a temporary restraining order and or a writ of preliminary injunction to maintain the status quo. Docketed as G.R. No. 193036, the petitioners including Lagman, Reps. Rodolfo Albano, Jr, Simeon Datumanong and Orlando Fua, Jr. posited that EO 1 violates the separation of powers as it arrogates the legislative authority of the Congress to create a public office and appropriate funds for its operation.... MORE Source:  The Daily Tribune URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/headlines/20100813hed1.html

HEADLINES GMA allies seek SC’s voiding of truth body Unless SC issues TRO, toll VAT on, says Palace Too many spokesmen in Cabinet spoil budget DoST chief’s appointment raises conflict of interest concerns Pirate attack on Norwegian ship with 29 Pinoys thwarted SC rebukes Palace on EO 2 rush, calls for courtesy