Senator Joel Villanueva said he would attend a special session if called by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying lawmakers should set aside political differences and focus on serving the Filipino people.
In a video message aired during the Sunday service of the Jesus Is Lord Church, Villanueva acknowledged that the ongoing leadership dispute in the Senate has affected the institution and underscored the need to prioritize public service.
“The Senate staff should not be caught in the middle of the fight. Hindi pwedeng puro away na lang,” Villanueva said.
The senator said public officials have a responsibility to ensure that government institutions continue functioning effectively despite political disagreements.
“Sa pagkakataon po na magkaroon ng special session tutuparin po natin ang ating sagradong tungkulin sa ilalim ng ating Saligang Batas. We will be there,” he said.
The possibility of a special session was earlier raised by Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian following the Senate’s failure to resolve its leadership dispute before adjourning sine die on June 6.
Gatchalian has cited the need to act on several pending matters, including the confirmation of appointments and promotions involving officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The Senate leadership row intensified after a bloc led by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano boycotted the final three session days before adjournment.
On June 3, 12 senators formed a quorum and elected Gatchalian as Senate President Pro Tempore before designating him as Acting Senate President, a move later recognized by Malacañang and the House of Representatives.
Villanueva said the country faces more pressing concerns than political disputes, including the recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao.
“This is not a time for partisanship,” he said. “It is our duty to protect our institution and prioritize the welfare of our fellow citizens.”
The senator added that public servants must remain focused on serving the people and upholding the responsibilities entrusted to them under the Constitution.
