Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday expressed concerns over the ongoing turmoil in the Senate, which is reportedly having an adverse impact on both the passage of key legislation and investor confidence, ultimately affecting the broader economy.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the Executive Branch remains committed to collaborating with the Senate, irrespective of its current leadership issues. This statement comes in the wake of Senate disruptions following the arrest of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada on plunder and graft charges related to irregularities in flood control projects. Castro urged lawmakers to continue fulfilling their legislative responsibilities, pointing out that the developments involving Estrada should not prevent them from performing their duties.
Castro reiterated the President's commitment to legislative priorities, stating that the executive will continue to work with Congress to pass bills vital for the public welfare. She highlighted that while it is understandable for senators to support Estrada as a colleague, it should not come at the expense of their legislative mandate.
The Palace official also warned that ongoing political tensions in the Senate could have broader implications, affecting not only the President but also the general populace. She noted that the economy could suffer due to the disruptions and chaos within the Senate, which has raised concerns about the potential stalling of several administration-backed priority measures as Congress approaches adjournment.
The Senate is currently embroiled in significant instability following the June 1 arrest of Estrada, who is accused of receiving over PHP573 million in kickbacks from flood control projects. This has led to a dramatic protest by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano and the 13-member majority bloc, who have boycotted plenary sessions, arguing that the legal actions against Estrada pose a threat to the Senate's institutional independence.
This situation follows a high-profile security incident on May 13, when Sen. Ronald dela Rosa allegedly left the Senate complex during a lockdown to avoid an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. Additionally, minority senators have staged walkouts over ongoing debates in plenary procedures, highlighting the increasing tension within the Senate.
