Manila: The Solid Bloc 11 minority senators have demanded the resignation of Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, accusing him of neglecting his responsibilities following a two-day Senate impasse caused by the majority bloc's decision to withhold quorum.

According to Philippines News Agency, the minority bloc released a joint statement condemning Cayetano for his inability to lead the Senate effectively. They argued that the Senate cannot cease its operations simply because its presiding officer fails to lead. The bloc referenced Rule XIV, Section 41 of the Senate rules, asserting that the Senate President can only postpone a session after consulting both the Majority Leader and the Minority Leader.

The Solid Bloc 11 called for Cayetano's resignation, stating that his actions constituted a direct violation of Senate rules and disrespected both the institution and the Filipino public. They emphasized that the failure to convene was not just a procedural error but a serious dereliction of duty.

The majority bloc defended their decision to withhold quorum, claiming it was necessary to protect ongoing Senate investigations, specifically the inquiry into alleged anomalies in flood control projects. They argued that the arrests of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada and the absence of Sen. Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa created an unusual situation that could temporarily shift committee leadership, even without sufficient numbers to replace the Senate President.

Cayetano, in a Facebook live video, urged the public to view the situation within the broader context of the Senate's commitment to truth and independence. He stressed the importance of having a Senate free from political interference and emphasized the need for the new majority to prove their capabilities.

The majority described withholding quorum as a legitimate parliamentary tactic to prevent temporary numerical shifts from affecting ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, the minority insisted that the Senate President is obligated to convene sessions and adhere to the rules, asserting that the Senate should not be left inactive amid pressing legislative work.

The Senate deadlock follows Estrada's arrest over a plunder case linked to alleged flood control anomalies and Dela Rosa's continued absence from the chamber.