UMVA has learned that a dramatic showdown is unfolding in the Senate, where minority lawmakers are calling for the resignation of Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano after a second consecutive day of majority lawmakers skipping sessions.
The Senate minority bloc, known as the "Solid Bloc 11," addressed the media, accusing Cayetano's leadership of demonstrating a "dereliction of duty" and holding key legislative work hostage. They emphasized that the Senate cannot be brought to a standstill simply because its presiding officer refuses to lead.
Senator Erwin T. Tulfo stated that Cayetano should resign, citing his inability to function as the leader of the Senate. This sentiment was echoed by Senator Francis Pancratius "Kiko" N. Pangilinan, who pointed out that the Senate Rules have been violated, specifically Rule XIV, Section 41, which mandates that the Senate president may postpone a session only after consultations with both majority and minority leaders.
The minority bloc expressed dismay over the postponement of sessions, highlighting that crucial bills, including those related to agriculture and citizenship, have been left in limbo due to the leadership fiasco. Senator Pangilinan apologized to the Filipino people, noting that four bills on the agenda, including two agriculture bills, would benefit farmers and fishermen.
Former Finance Committee Chairman Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian added that the Senate's daily expenses, including utilities and staff salaries, amount to P25 million, which is being wasted due to the non-conduct of sessions. The minority bloc appealed to their colleagues to attend the session, expressing openness to debates.
Meanwhile, Malacañang raised concerns about the impact of the Senate ruckus on the priority legislative agenda and the economy. The Palace Press Officer emphasized that the noise and mess in the chamber will make it difficult to pass priority bills, ultimately affecting Filipinos and the economy.
The executive branch assured that President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and Cabinet secretaries are doing their part and are open to coordinating and cooperating with whoever leads the chamber. Congress has until Thursday to act on legislative measures before adjourning sine die on June 4, and lawmakers will reconvene on July 27 for the start of a new regular session and the State of the Nation Address.
In a heated exchange, Cayetano accused the Senate minority bloc of staging a walkout as a ploy to become the majority and prevent Senate rules from changing. However, minority lawmakers denied these accusations, and political analysts described the majority's recent moves as attempts to leverage their number against the minority to shape public perception and the path of impeachment proceedings.
Analysts noted that the absence of the majority bloc compromises legislative work and is a move to cripple the minority. This ongoing struggle over control of the Senate's agenda, procedures, and institutional direction has raised concerns about the implications for the country's governance and stability.
