Tokyo: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed concern over recent developments in the Senate, saying debates have increasingly become personal rather than issue-based. Marcos, a former senator, said he has observed a shift in Senate discourse away from professional deliberation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos shared his observations during a media interview in Tokyo, Japan, where he recalled an earlier discussion with Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, also a former senator. Marcos expressed dismay over the perceived decline in the quality of Senate deliberations, stating that the tone has apparently changed from the time he served as a senator.

He noted that during his tenure, Senate deliberations were characterized by intense yet respectful exchanges, where heated debates during plenary sessions were not taken personally. Marcos emphasized that legislative discussions should remain focused on public service and work, not personal conflicts.

Marcos also expressed dismay over the 'fake' shooting incident inside the Senate premises while Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa was still under Senate protective custody. Dela Rosa is facing arrest by the International Criminal Court due to drug war killings during his tenure as the country's top cop under the Duterte administration.

Marcos called on the senators to restore professionalism in the chamber, questioning how the Senate can function properly while embroiled in such controversies. He urged the senators to resolve these issues promptly to ensure the Senate fulfills its role effectively.