President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is open to calling a special session of Congress to address legislative delays caused by recent leadership disputes in the Senate, Malacañang announced on Thursday.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President is ready to take swift action once a formal request is submitted by the upper chamber’s new leaders, headed by Acting Senate President Win Gatchalian.
“As soon as the new leadership will send the official request for special session addressed to the President, then the President will act immediately on that,” Castro said.
When asked if the Chief Executive was inclined to grant the request, Castro answered in the affirmative.
“Yes.”
Castro explained that the administration wants to ensure that state affairs remain unimpeded by recent political developments.
“Kung marami ang maantala dahil sa mga nangyayaring ganitong kaganapan, hindi po nais ng Pangulo na magkaroon ng pag-antala sa trabaho ng Senado,” she said.
The Palace issued the statement after the Senate’s new majority bloc assumed control and began exploring solutions for pending legislative matters stalled by the leadership standoff. The Senate notably missed three session days during the impasse, delaying bill passages, committee hearings, and official appointments.
Among the urgent matters, Gatchalian highlighted the pending confirmation of five military generals whose promotions risk being voided if not acted upon before their mandatory retirement.
While the Palace supports the call for a special session, Castro emphasized that the Senate must provide a clear legislative agenda and sufficient justification.
She also noted that the President hopes lawmakers will use the time to tackle key administration priorities, particularly the proposed anti-political dynasty bill.
“Ang gusto po talaga ng Pangulo sa ngayon, ito ang isa sa priority bills niya po — ang anti-political dynasty. Gusto niya po talaga itong maipasa,” Castro said.