Former Senate chief reiterates authority as chamber remains divided over leadership transition
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday issued an official advisory setting work schedules for Senate employees ahead of the June 12 Independence Day holiday, further underscoring his continued claim to the Senate presidency despite the chamber’s leadership dispute.
In the memorandum released under the designation “Office of the Senate President,” Cayetano reminded Senate personnel that the institution would implement its standard 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. work schedule whenever a legal holiday falls on a Friday.
“In view of the upcoming Independence Day on Friday, June 12, 2026, please be reminded that the Senate shall automatically implement the 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. working hours should a holiday fall on a Friday,” the advisory stated.
The issuance came amid an ongoing standoff over the Senate leadership following developments in the chamber on June 3, when a majority of senators elected Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as Senate President Pro Tempore and designated him as Acting Senate President.
Despite the move, Cayetano has continued to perform functions and issue directives associated with the office of the Senate President, maintaining that he remains the legitimate head of the chamber.
Cayetano and his allies have repeatedly questioned the legitimacy of Gatchalian’s leadership, arguing that actions taken by the opposing bloc lack proper authority.
The leadership conflict has deepened divisions within the Senate, with competing directives and public statements from both camps fueling uncertainty over administrative and legislative operations.
The dispute has also prompted discussions among senators regarding possible arrangements to ease tensions within the chamber. However, Gatchalian earlier rejected suggestions of a power-sharing agreement, insisting that the June 3 proceedings had already settled the issue of Senate leadership.
As the impasse continues, both factions remain firm in their respective positions, leaving unresolved questions over authority and governance in the upper chamber.
ia/xf
