MANILA – Malacañang said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is willing to convene a special session of Congress if the Senate officially requests it and presents sufficient justification.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the President will promptly respond once the Senate leadership, headed by acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, submits a formal request.
“He will act right away once the official request for a special session is sent to the President,” Castro said in a briefing on Thursday.
Castro also confirmed that Marcos is open to approving the request, emphasizing that the President is prepared to consider it favorably.
Among the legislative priorities highlighted by the administration is the proposed anti-political dynasty measure, which remains part of the government’s agenda.
The possibility of a special session surfaced following delays in Senate proceedings caused by a leadership dispute, which affected the chamber’s regular schedule.
Marcos earlier warned that disruptions in the upper chamber could delay urgent legislative measures, including proposals addressing economic pressures such as rising fuel prices worldwide.
Senators, led by Gatchalian, are now assessing whether a special session is necessary to address pending bills and urgent confirmations, including five military promotions that may lapse if not acted upon before mandatory retirement deadlines.
Other legislative items that were postponed during the suspension of sessions are also being reviewed.
ia/xf
