Metro Manila, Philippines – Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Wednesday, June 3, described the Senate impasse as “untenable and unacceptable,” calling on lawmakers to set aside political divisions and prioritize the institution’s mandate to serve the public.
In a statement issued on June 3, Escudero stressed that the political standoff has begun to affect the Senate’s ability to perform its constitutional duties. He attended the plenary on the last session day, allowing the chamber to have a quorum to do business.
“The current impasse in the Senate is untenable and unacceptable,” said Escudero, emphasizing that when divisions become too severe and obstruct the chamber’s work, senators must have the courage to reflect and place the institution above personal or political interests.
He said his position was not aligned with any political faction.
“This is not a political contest. I am not taking sides. I am taking a stand for the Senate… My allegiance is not to any faction, personality, group or alliance,” he added.
Escudero also rejected suggestions that he was siding with any particular bloc.
“Wala akong sinasamahan o iniiwanang grupo, pangkat o paksyon. Hindi ko sinasabi na may mali o tama o may nagkulang o nagmalabis kaninuman. Ngunit hindi pwedeng manatili tayo sa ganitong sitwasyon. Ang naaapektuhan na ay ang mismong kakayahan ng Senado na gampanan ang kaniyang tungkulin sa bayan.”
[Translation: I am not siding with or leaving a group or faction. I am not saying there may be wrong or right or shortcoming or abuse. But we cannot remain in this situation. The Senate’s ability to fulfil its mandate to the nation is getting affected.]
The 12 senators in plenary declared all positions vacant including the Senate presidency. They elected Win Gatchalian as president pro tempore and concurrent acting Senate president.
Escudero said the focus should remain on preserving the integrity and functionality of the Senate and ensuring that it continues to fulfill its responsibilities to the Filipino people.
