Cayetano asked to resign as Senate chief as majority skips session anew

The Senate minority bloc on Tuesday called on Senate President Alan Peter S. Cayetano to step down after majority senators skipped sessions for a second time this week, a move that they said is holding key legislative work hostage. The demand was reported by BusinessWorld .

Minority lawmakers argued that the frequent absences of the majority bloc, which began earlier this week, have paralyzed Senate proceedings and prevented the chamber from addressing urgent measures. They accused Cayetano of failing to maintain order and ensure quorum, undermining the institution's ability to function.

The political standoff comes amid ongoing tensions between the Senate leadership and the House of Representatives over budget priorities and legislative calendars. Observers note that the continued disruption could delay the approval of key economic bills, including the proposed 2027 national budget, as the year-end deadline approaches.