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A majority of all the members of the Regional Assembly
shall constitute a quorum to do business, but a smaller number
may adjourn from day to day and may compel the attendance of
absent members in such a manner and under such penalties as
the assembly may provide.
The Regional Assembly or any of its committees may
conduct inquiries or public consultations in aid of legislation in
accordance with its rules. In connection therewith, it shall have
the power to issue subpoena or subpoena duces tecum to compel
the attendance of and the production of papers, documents, or
things by witnesses or persons under investigation by the
assembly, itself, or by any of its committees. It shall also have
the right to cite witnesses or persons under investigation for
contempt for refusal to testify before it or before any of its
committees or to produce papers, documents or things required
by the assembly or any of its committees. The rights of persons
appearing in or affected by such inquiries shall be respected.
The Regional Assembly shall keep a journal of its
proceedings and a record of its caucuses and meetings. The record
and books of accounts of the assembly shall be preserved and
open to public scrutiny.
The Commission on Audit of the Regional Government shall
publish an annual report of the itemized list of expenditures
incurred by the members of the Regional Assembly within sixty
(60) days from the end of every regular session.
SEC. 14. Questioning Cabinet Members and Other
Officials. – The Regional Assembly may, in aid of legislation and
with the express consent of the Regional Governor, require the
presence of the regional cabinet members or their deputies as its
rules shall provide, for questioning on matters falling within the
scope of their powers and functions.
The Regional Assembly may require any regional
commission, office, or agency of the central government or national
government with offices in the autonomous region to explain
matters relating to the exercise of its powers and functions.