MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano faced renewed criticism after the student council of his alma mater’s law school expressed concern over recent developments in the Senate, following what it described as a leadership shift marked by controversy.
In a statement issued Saturday, the Ateneo Law School Student Council said Cayetano “fell short of the ethical leadership expected of him as an Atenean,” adding that his actions had disappointed students who look up to alumni of the institution as examples of principled public service.
The statement pointed to recent Senate developments, including the unexpected return of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa after months of absence, who reportedly played a key role in shifting leadership dynamics in the chamber.
It also referenced allegations surrounding Dela Rosa’s brief placement under Senate protective custody and his subsequent disappearance, which drew public attention and scrutiny over accountability within the institution.
According to the student council, such incidents send a troubling message that accountability may not be applied equally to all officials, stressing that the Senate “is not a sanctuary” from responsibility.
The group further warned that these events risk undermining public trust, calling the situation an example of “impunity” in governance.
Earlier, student political groups from the University of the Philippines also released a joint statement calling for Cayetano’s resignation, describing the Senate under his leadership as increasingly chaotic and politically charged.
Cayetano, meanwhile, responded to the political tensions by drawing an analogy on social media, likening Senate dynamics to the progression of a Pokémon card game—from order to conflict and eventual disorder.
He said the comparison was intended to explain complex political realities in simpler terms, especially for younger audiences, and emphasized that political differences among senators were natural in a diverse legislative body.
He also reflected on his brief tenure changes in leadership, stating that he remains open to what he described as “God’s plan” for his role in public service.
