A train terminal has been installed menacingly in the plenary hall of the House of Representatives for the railroading of the approval of HB No. 4727 reimposing the death penalty.

The train’s arrival has been advanced from March 8, 2017 to February 28, 2017 when the death penalty bill has been scheduled by the House leadership for voting.

The advance voting was a reaction to the quorum calls of those objecting to the retrogressive measure.

It is a puzzle why the House leadership gets peeved when the absence of a quorum is raised considering that under the Rules no business can be conducted in the absence of a quorum.

It is the duty of the House leadership to maintain a quorum after the roll call is held in order to assure that the interpellations and debates would continue.

Moving for adjournment due to absence of a quorum under Article 75 of Rule XI is a legitimate parliamentary motion, like calling for a nominal voting under Article 116 of Rule XV.

EDCEL C. LAGMAN