The Senate’s rank-and-file employees’ union has raised concerns over reports that staff members who assisted during the June 4, 2026 Blue Ribbon Committee hearing might face backlash or investigations due to the chamber’s ongoing leadership conflict.
In an official statement, the Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Organisasyon (SENADO) shielded the affected workers, clarifying that they were merely fulfilling their designated roles.
“Equally troubling are reports that employees who assisted in the June 4, 2026, Blue Ribbon Committee hearing have become the subject of criticism, disparaging remarks, and possible investigation.”
The labor union maintained that the personnel acted in good faith and carried out the directives tied to their official administrative functions.
“Regardless of the political positions taken by various parties, the employees involved merely performed functions assigned to them in good faith and in accordance with their official duties and responsibilities.”
The friction stems from a power struggle between the faction of Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano and a bloc loyal to Senate President Pro Tempore Win Gatchalian.
Last week, Gatchalian’s group declared the chamber’s leadership seats vacant and appointed Senator Erwin Tulfo as the new Blue Ribbon Committee chairperson, replacing Senator Pia Cayetano.
However, Alan Peter Cayetano condemned the reorganization as an “illegal coup d’etat” and proceeded with the committee’s scheduled inquiry into controversial flood control projects.
SENADO called on Senate leaders to insulate career public servants from political crossfire and shield them from administrative backlash.
“We likewise urge that no employee be subjected to retaliation, discrimination, harassment, or adverse consequences for actions undertaken in good faith and pursuant to official duties.”
The organization also cited Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, to back its stance.
“Under… RA 6713, public officials and employees are mandated to uphold the public interest, demonstrate professionalism, commit themselves to public service, and remain responsive to the needs of the people and faithfully discharge their duties without fear or favor.”
The union concluded that state workers must be permitted to execute their mandates impartially, free from the threat of sanctions for obeying lawful orders.