MANILA, Philippines — Four former Senate presidents have called on incumbent lawmakers to put an end to the ongoing leadership dispute in the Senate, warning that prolonged political infighting could undermine public trust and disrupt the chamber’s constitutional duties.
In a joint statement released Friday, former Senate presidents Franklin Drilon, Aquilino Pimentel III, Vicente Sotto III, and Juan Miguel Zubiri urged senators to swiftly resolve the power struggle that has divided the upper chamber in recent weeks.
The former Senate leaders stressed that the country “cannot afford an unstable Senate,” emphasizing the institution’s critical role in legislation, oversight, and other constitutional functions. They called on senators to prioritize national interests over political differences and work toward restoring stability and credibility within the chamber.
The appeal comes amid a contentious leadership battle that has resulted in competing claims over Senate authority and questions regarding the legality of recent sessions. The dispute intensified after a group of senators convened and elected Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as acting Senate president pro tempore, while allies of Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano challenged the validity of the proceedings.
The standoff has raised concerns over the Senate’s ability to perform its legislative responsibilities, including deliberations on key national issues and matters related to the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In their statement, the former Senate presidents underscored the importance of preserving the Senate as a respected democratic institution. They urged lawmakers to move beyond factional divisions and ensure that legislative work continues uninterrupted for the benefit of the Filipino people.
Their call adds to growing appeals from various sectors for senators to resolve internal conflicts and refocus on governance, particularly as Congress faces pressing legislative and constitutional responsibilities in the coming months.
