Minority senators disclosed that Senate Secretary Jose Luis Montales was formally notified by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano that the entire majority bloc will not attend the plenary session scheduled today, June 2, 2026.
The information was relayed to the minority leadership, confirming that for the second consecutive session day, the upper chamber will be unable to conduct its regular business due to the absence of lawmakers from the majority side. This development follows the cancellation of proceedings yesterday, which also happened after members of the majority failed to show up amid the political tensions triggered by the arrest of Senator Jinggoy Estrada.
According to members of the minority, the notice was communicated directly by Cayetano to Montales, effectively making it official that no quorum would be achieved today.
The move has drawn concern from the opposition bloc, who pointed out that important legislative measures and confirmation hearings remain pending and are now further delayed. They emphasized that the continued absence of the majority hampers the Senate’s constitutional mandate and deprives the public of timely action on key bills and appointments that are essential to government operations.
While no detailed explanation was given for the decision to skip another session, the action comes at a time when the Senate is deeply divided over recent events, including the arrest and detention of Estrada on plunder charges and the growing friction between the legislative and executive branches.
The minority expressed disappointment over the situation, stressing that political differences should not stop the chamber from fulfilling its duties. They reiterated their call for the majority to return to the session hall and resume work, warning that prolonged paralysis within the Senate undermines the institution’s independence and credibility before the Filipino people.
metrosundaily
