UMVA has learned that Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano has offered a bold proposal to Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin T. Gatchalian, aimed at resolving the growing confusion over who holds the authority within the chamber.
Cayetano, who insists he is the “legitimate” Senate president, suggested a setup that would allow both him and Gatchalian to sign administrative documents, effectively sharing power and avoiding potential usurpation complaints from both camps.
However, Cayetano expressed frustration that Gatchalian's camp refused his proposal, which he believes has led to a bizarre situation where there are now effectively two Senates: “the Senate of the Philippines, and the Senate of Malacañang.”
Cayetano's concerns were echoed by his assertion that Gatchalian is usurping authority, claiming he is not the rightful acting Senate president.
Meanwhile, attempts to reach out to Gatchalian for comment on Cayetano's allegations and proposal have been met with silence, leaving the situation even more uncertain.
Cayetano also reaffirmed his earlier stance that key Senate positions, including that of the Senate president, should require a minimum of 13 votes to be elected, a threshold not met in recent developments.
The Senate had previously declared a quorum of 12, based on the 22 available senators, after Senator Jose “Jinggoy” P. Estrada, Jr. was arrested and Senator Ronald “Bato” M. dela Rosa evaded arrest.
The chamber subsequently moved to fill several key positions, including committee chairships, but left the Senate president role vacant, adding to the ongoing power struggle.
The Palace has openly opposed Cayetano's proposal, reiterating its recognition of Gatchalian's leadership and warning that such an arrangement could lead to further instability.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Clarissa A. Castro emphasized that the Executive branch will only recognize Gatchalian, casting doubt on the viability of Cayetano's plan.
