LEADERS from various De La Salle institutions nationwide have issued a statement calling for accountability, truth, and institutional reforms amid ongoing controversies surrounding the Senate.

In a statement titled “Restoring Faith and Dignity in the Senate” released Thursday, the Lasallian leaders expressed concern over what they described as serious questions surrounding the integrity and mandate of the Senate as a democratic institution.

The group said recent controversies involving the chamber have reinforced public perception that the institution is “more concerned with shielding the powerful rather than upholding the rule of law.”

The statement also cited what it described as “questionable institutional protection” extended to a member of the chamber facing accountability for alleged crimes against humanity, as well as incidents of violence and political posturing within the Senate.

According to the group, Filipinos deserve leaders committed to accountability and reforms that address the needs of vulnerable sectors, including laborers, farmers, fisherfolk, urban poor communities, and those without access to quality healthcare and education.

The statement further urged Lasallians serving in government to remain faithful to the values of truth, justice, accountability, and ethical public service.

Quoting statesman and fellow Lasallian Jose “Ka Pepe” Diokno, the group emphasized that public office must serve the people rather than personal or political interests.

The statement was signed by officials from several De La Salle institutions, including De La Salle Philippines, De La Salle University, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, University of St. La Salle, and other Lasallian schools and institutions nationwide.