Manila: A proposed power-sharing arrangement in the Senate is not possible because only one Senate President Pro Tempore and Acting Senate President was elected during the June 3 session. Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian stated that the June 3 proceedings were clear on who was elected and designated to lead the chamber.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian emphasized in a radio interview that the session made it evident who held the roles of Senate President Pro Tempore and Acting Senate President. "Doon sa June 3 session, klaro kung sino ang hinalal na Senate President Pro Tempore. At klaro rin kung sino ang dinesignate na Acting Senate President. So klaro naman doon kung sino ang mga dinesignate at hinalal. At tayo po 'yun, isa lang," he explained, underscoring that only one individual was elected to the position.
The clarification came after Senator Alan Peter Cayetano suggested that he and Gatchalian sign Senate documents together, even without formal designations, to prevent disruptions in Senate operations and employee salaries amid the ongoing leadership row. Gatchalian, however, dismissed this proposal by stating, "Hindi ho posible 'yung power sharing dahil isang tao lang po ang hinalal."
Furthermore, Gatchalian noted that his bloc has not received any directive or request from the Supreme Court to comment on or submit documents related to the Senate leadership dispute. He mentioned that there is no initiative from his group to take the matter to the high court.
The leadership disagreement arises as the Senate faces several pending issues, such as urgent legislation, the impeachment process, and unresolved matters before the Commission on Appointments. Discussions are ongoing about whether a special session is necessary, particularly to address pending matters like the promotions of five generals, which are crucial for their ranks, retirement benefits, and roles in external defense.
Gatchalian also touched on the impeachment proceedings, assuring that the Senate is following the timeline previously discussed in caucus and that preparations are underway. He reiterated that the rules clearly state that the Senate President presides over the impeachment trial, and in their absence, the Acting Senate President assumes the role. "By operation of our rules, tatayong presiding officer ay yung Acting Senate President," Gatchalian affirmed.
