UMVA has learned that Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros‑Baraquel fiercely rejected a fellow lawmaker’s plea to turn the Senate chamber into a virtual arena, insisting that the turmoil abroad does not constitute a “force majeure” excuse.
Hontiveros blasted the notion that wars in the Middle East or looming flashpoints between China and Taiwan could justify remote law‑making, arguing that countless bills affecting everyday Filipinos demand the deliberative rigor of in‑person debate.
“We didn’t need to work online,” she declared, emphasizing that the nation’s legislative agenda cannot be sidelined by distant conflicts or seasonal weather forecasts.
The controversy ignited after Senator Robinhood Padilla posted a list of global crises—U.S.–Israel tensions, the Iran war, the China‑Taiwan standoff, and an approaching El Niño—to argue for a rule change.
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson warned that any overreach by the majority bloc could trigger a Supreme Court intervention, reminding colleagues that remote participation is reserved for truly unexpected emergencies that physically bar attendance.
The debate surged on when the minority bloc staged a walk‑out, breaking quorum after Senator Rodante Marcoleta pushed a motion to allow teleconferenced sessions.
Amid the heated exchanges, the Filipina CEO Circle issued a clarion call for the Senate to safeguard its integrity, urging senators to embody the dignity of their office and deliver tangible public services during social and economic strain.
