MANILA, Aug. 27 -- Senate President Francis Escudero on Wednesday expressed full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to conduct lifestyle checks on public officials, citing clear constitutional and legal bases for the move.

Escudero said Article XI, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution mandates public officials to remain accountable to the people, serve with integrity, and lead modest lives.

He also referred to Section 8 of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which allows dismissal of public officials for unexplained wealth, and Section 4(h) of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which prohibits extravagant displays of wealth.

"Thes...