Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Saturday explained that his unexpected appearance at last Wednesday’s Senate plenary session was meant to uphold the 1987 Constitution, which forbids either chamber of Congress from adjourning for more than three days without the other’s consent.
In a preview of his upcoming podcast, Escudero referenced Article VI, Section 16(5) of the Constitution to justify breaking the legislative deadlock.
He stressed that the Senate would have committed a constitutional violation had it failed to convene on the third day.
“Nagpasya ako na itigil na yung kawalan ng sesyon sa Senado dahil nakasaad din sa Saligang Batas na hindi pwedeng mag-adjourn ang Senado nang sosobra sa tatlong araw nang hindi nagpapaalam sa kabilang Kamara,” Escudero said.
“Kung hindi pa kami nagsesyon, lalabagin na namin yung probisyon na yun ng Saligang Batas,” he added.
Escudero’s sudden arrival ended a tense two-day impasse caused by a boycott from the bloc of embattled Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano. By showing up, Escudero provided the critical 12th vote required to establish a quorum, enabling the present lawmakers to resume official business and reorganize leadership.
The revived session led to the election of Senator Win Gatchalian as Senate President Pro Tempore and subsequently as Acting Senate President, intensifying the ongoing leadership dispute in the upper chamber.
Escudero maintained that his action was not meant to side with any political faction. Instead, he emphasized that the prolonged legislative standstill was “untenable and unacceptable,” noting that the institution’s duty to the public must always override political divisions.