Actress Maricel Soriano openly shared her apprehensions and fears during her appearance at the Senate hearing on the PDEA leaks, describing the experience as “nerve-wracking” and “terrifying.”
Soriano’s presence at the second public hearing of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs regarding the PDEA leaks drew attention, as it marked her first time being invited to such a formal inquiry.
During the hearing chaired by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Soriano faced questions about her alleged involvement in the leaked PDEA document and accusations of mistreatment toward two household staff.
After being questioned by dela Rosa, Soriano delivered a prepared statement to address the committee and attendees.
“Magandang umaga po sa mga kagalang-galang na Senador at sa lahat po na nandito ngayong araw. Ako po ay nakatanggap ng imbitasyon galing kay Senador Bato Dela Rosa para magbigay ng komento tungkol sa isyu na pinag-uusapan dito sa hearing,” Soriano stated.
Apologizing for her lack of familiarity with such proceedings, she expressed her nervousness and confusion about the reasons behind her invitation to the hearing.
“Unang-una humihingi po ako ng paumanhin dahil hindi po ako sanay sa mga ganito. Alam niyo po first time ko lang po talaga na makatanggap ng imbitasyon na humarap sa Senado, nakakakaba at nakakatakot. Sa totoo lang po hindi malinaw sa akin kung bakit po ako naimbitahan sa hearing. Nagtataka lang po ako dahil lahat po ng tumestigo rito ay nagsabing hindi na-verify ang impormasyon ni Mr. Morales at walang imbestigasyon na naganap,” Soriano elaborated.
Despite her apprehensions, Soriano affirmed her respect for the Senate and its members, particularly Chairman Senator Dela Rosa, and assured her willingness to cooperate and answer questions to the best of her ability.
Concluding her statement, Soriano requested that her legal representative, Atty. Agnes Maranan, respond to any legal queries on her behalf, emphasizing her lack of legal expertise.
“Maraming salamat po, sir,” Soriano concluded, indicating her readiness to participate further in the proceedings with the assistance of her legal counsel.
