Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he was “horrified” at the state of the Senate, describing the chamber as having “descended” in grappling with tensions and controversies.
Speaking to reporters in Japan, Marcos expressed alarm over recent incidents, including a reported gun-related episode and a walkout by minority lawmakers.
“I watched with horror that the Senate has become this,” Marcos said on Friday, May 28.
The president, a former senator, said the institution has strayed from its tradition, with political disagreements turning into personal bickering.
“It’s about work. It’s not about personalities. Nagbago eh. Naging personal,” he said.
[Translation: It has changed. It has become personal.]
Marcos contrasted the situation with his time in the Senate, where heated debates did not affect personal relationships.
“After pag-upo namin, magkakape naman kami… Hindi personal,” he said.
[Translation: After sessions, we would have coffee together. It was not personal.]
He also raised concern over issues involving lawmakers, including allegations that the Senate is a refuge against accountability.
“The Senate is now sheltering fugitives from justice. How did that happen?” Marcos said.
The president said he never expected the institution to reach this state.
“I never imagined that the Senate would descend into this kind of what’s happening right now,” he added.
Marcos said he hopes senators will resolve the situation and restore order.
“I hope they figure it out soon,” he said.
