UMVA has learned that the Senate is set to prioritize the appointment confirmations of five high-ranking generals during a special session on June 17, which had been stalled since June 1.
The session, as confirmed by Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin T. Gatchalian, will tackle several critical bills, including resolutions for assistance to Mindanao quake victims, pending citizenship bills, and crucial agriculture legislation.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Gatchalian has urged all senators, regardless of their affiliation, to attend the special session, emphasizing the significance of these matters, particularly the Commission on Appointments' (CA) review of the generals' appointments.
The CA's review is under pressure, as the period for the appointments has already lapsed, adding urgency to the proceedings. Gatchalian stressed that these are critical issues that require immediate attention.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that several key measures are set to be acted upon during the special session, including the creation of the National Center for Geriatric Health, the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, and a proposed Anti-Political Dynasty law.
Gatchalian remained tight-lipped about the possibility of electing a Senate president during the special session, instead focusing on the pressing need to finalize these bills and confirm the generals' appointments.
The special session is scheduled to commence at 9 a.m. and run until 5 p.m., with Gatchalian expressing his hope that senators will put aside their differences to tackle these pressing issues.
