Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian confirmed that senators are not required to seek Senate clearance for personal travel. This policy comes under scrutiny as two senators recently left the country during an impeachment trial.
On September 10, 2026, the Bureau of Immigration reported that Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Pia Cayetano had traveled abroad. Their departure coincides with ongoing Senate discussions on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte and budget preparations.
Gatchalian stated, "Senators leaving for abroad for personal reasons may do so without seeking clearance or notifying the Senate leadership." His comments came as social media users speculated about the senators' travels.
Understanding Senate Travel Policies
According to Senate Policy Order No. 2016-003, personal trips do not require prior approval. This amendment, enacted under then-Senate President Franklin Drilon, removed the stipulation that personal travel needed Senate clearance.
In contrast, official travel mandates prior approval from the Senate president, particularly when the Senate covers related expenses. This distinction aims to ensure transparency and accountability for official engagements.
- Personal trips do not require Senate approval.
- Official trips require clearance for funding and expenses.
The absence of a clearance requirement for personal travel reflects a broader trend in legislative practices, allowing officials greater flexibility to manage their time and commitments outside formal duties.