Former student leaders from the University of the Philippines Diliman have called on Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano to step down from his post following the controversial shooting incident inside the Senate, saying the recent crisis exposed what they described as “years of failed leadership, political maneuvering, and disregard for public accountability.”
In a strongly worded statement released Friday, the former leaders criticized Cayetano’s handling of the escalating tensions inside the Senate and questioned his capability to continue leading the chamber amid growing public outrage and political instability.
The controversy stemmed from the shooting incident that occurred inside the Senate earlier this week during heightened tensions involving Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and law enforcement authorities. The incident quickly sparked national attention, raising serious concerns over security, governance, and the state of the country’s political institutions.
According to the former student leaders, the incident was more than just a security lapse — it was a reflection of a deeper political problem within the Senate leadership.
“This is no longer simply about politics or partisan disagreement. This is about accountability, integrity, and the kind of leadership the Filipino people deserve,” the group said.
The people on social media also aimed for Cayetano’s long political career, arguing that after nearly two decades in public office, the Senate President should have already demonstrated maturity, responsibility, and genuine public service.
“Cayetano has been in the position for 20 years already, but it seems he never learned how to truly do his job and become better,” one post said. “The public is already tired of his shenanigans and political theatrics.”
Social media post further called on Cayetano to reflect on the mistakes and controversies that have marked his years in government, urging him to prioritize service to the Filipino people instead of protecting political interests and powerful allies.
“Hope he learned from the mistakes of the past — maybe not for himself, but for the legacy of his father,” they added. “May he realize that it is not yet too late to choose to do good, not to serve those in power, but to genuinely serve the people he claims have voted for him throughout these 20 years.”
The statement also resonated online, with many netizens expressing frustration over the continuing political tension inside the Senate and demanding greater accountability from elected officials.
Despite mounting criticism, Cayetano has defended his leadership and dismissed allegations surrounding the Senate standoff. He previously accused certain officials of allegedly feeding misleading information to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation into the Senate shooting incident, with officials reviewing CCTV footage and preparing a final report.
The call for Cayetano’s resignation adds to the increasing pressure faced by the Senate leadership, as political groups, student organizations, and members of the public continue demanding transparency, accountability, and reforms within the country’s political institutions.
