The Senate majority bloc, spearheaded by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, has voiced strong disapproval of a recent Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, labeling it as unauthorized and unproductive.
Focus on Legislative Duties
In a statement released on June 4, 2026, the bloc urged fellow senators to redirect their efforts towards legitimate legislative work. They emphasized the importance of adhering to Senate protocols and respecting the newly established leadership.
The Filipino people deserve senators who show up for work, not for drama.
Gatchalian-led Senate bloc
Gatchalian reminded his colleagues that there were no official hearings scheduled for that morning. He asserted that any proceedings initiated by Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and others lacked a foundation in Senate rules.
The majority bloc criticized the actions of the Cayetano-led group, accusing them of attempting to undermine the legitimate Senate processes and engaging in theatrics.
Gatchalian indicated that the Blue Ribbon Committee's hearing related to flood control had been postponed until June 8 to give the new chair, Senator Erwin Tulfo, adequate time to prepare.
Political Tensions Rise
As political tensions within the Senate escalate, Secretary of the Interior Jonvic Remulla denied allegations that he obstructed access to the Senate for Cayetano and other attendees of the controversial hearing.
Remulla claimed he was simply leaving the area when he was inadvertently pushed aside by Senator Robin Padilla.
Security Measures in Place
In light of the ongoing political unrest, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed increased security measures around the Senate. He stated these measures aim to ensure public order amid anticipated protests.