Senate Faces Uncertainty After Majority Boycott, Adjournment Looms
What’s next after majority boycott? Senate can adjourn sine die — Drilon
Image: Inquirer
The Philippine Senate is facing uncertainty after the majority bloc, led by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, boycotted a session, leaving the minority waiting. Former Senate President Franklin Drilon stated that the Senate can still adjourn sine die on June 5 without convening, despite concerns raised by minority leaders.
- 01The Senate majority bloc did not attend a scheduled session, prompting accusations of a boycott from minority senators.
- 02Former Senate President Franklin Drilon confirmed that the Senate can adjourn sine die as per the legislative calendar, even without a quorum.
- 03Minority leaders expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the session's cancellation.
- 04Drilon noted that while the majority's absence does not violate Senate rules, it undermines democratic representation.
- 05Minority Leader Vicente 'Tito' Sotto III argued that the majority's actions could be unconstitutional and against Senate rules.
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The Philippine Senate is in turmoil following a boycott by the majority bloc, led by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, during a scheduled session. The absence of the 13-member majority left the 11 minority senators waiting for over two hours, leading to accusations of a 'boycott' rather than a legitimate call for Senate independence. Former Senate President Franklin Drilon stated that the Senate can still adjourn sine die on June 5 as planned, even if the majority does not convene. He clarified that a concurrent resolution would be necessary for an earlier adjournment, which cannot be adopted without a quorum. The minority expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of prior notice regarding the session's cancellation, emphasizing that it reflects poorly on the majority's respect for Senate rules. In contrast, Minority Leader Vicente 'Tito' Sotto III claimed that the majority's actions could be unconstitutional and not supported by Senate regulations. The situation raises concerns about the functioning of the Senate and the representation of minority voices.
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The Senate's functioning and legislative processes are at risk due to the majority's boycott, affecting governance and representation.
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