Senate President Win Gatchalian on Thursday announced that the period of political drama within the upper chamber has concluded, directing lawmakers to refocus on their legislative duties following a special session on June 17.
During a press briefing on June 18, Gatchalian stressed the importance of moving past recent institutional controversies to prioritize the crafting of laws and the passage of critical state measures.
“Tapos na ang Senateflix. Back to work na tayo,” Gatchalian said.
The Senate leader noted that operational planning is underway to determine which priority bills—particularly those under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) agenda—will be fast-tracked and resolved in the upcoming weeks.
Furthermore, Gatchalian confirmed that the chamber is laying the groundwork for the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, scheduled to commence on July 6, 2026.
“In the next few weeks, ilalatag na namin ‘yung mga LEDAC bills na dapat matapos at ilalatag na rin namin ‘yung mga preparations natin for the impeachment on July 6, 2026,” he said.
According to Gatchalian, coordination has already started with multiple state agencies to secure logistical and security preparedness for the high-profile trial.
Collaborating entities include the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Pasay City local government.
To maintain legislative momentum despite the impending trial, the Senate President is urging lawmakers to jumpstart committee hearings before plenary sessions fully resume.
“So, in the next few weeks, we will focus also on the bills. We will request the senators to already proceed with their hearings… Na elect na rin yung mga chairman at vice chairman ng committees. So, they can already proceed with conducting a hearing,” Gatchalian said.
He explained that because committee leadership positions have already been filled, panels can immediately return to evaluating pending measures.
“Pagpasok natin, tuloy-tuloy na yung mga discussions ng LEDAC bills and also other bills na priority measures ng ating mga senators,” he added.
Gatchalian’s statements follow a turbulent period for the chamber. The political shift began on May 11 when an unexpected plenary attendance by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa allowed an allied majority to elect Senator Alan Peter Cayetano as Senate President, ousting Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.
Internal friction within the institution was further exacerbated by a shooting incident at the Senate premises on May 13.