Summary
Highlights
After two weeks of confusion, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian was elected as the new Senate President. This was made possible with the addition of Senator Joel Villanueva, bringing the majority to 13 senators. The special session also saw the election of other key positions, including Senator Zubiri as Majority Leader and Senator Soto as Senate President Pro Tempore. Senator Villanueva stated his decision to join the majority was for work, work, work, emphasizing his commitment to legislative duties.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has concluded that the Senate was not 'under attack' on May 13, contrary to claims by former Senate President Allan Peter Cayetano. The DOJ is investigating whether actions taken to prevent Senator Bato dela Rosa's arrest were planned and constitute obstruction of justice. Justice Secretary Frederick Vida revealed that the Senate had previously denied their request to inspect the premises but hopes the new leadership will cooperate. Senator Marcos also dismissed accusations of receiving money, stating it was 'BS' and not worth dignifying.
The PNP-CIDG's initial investigation suggests the deaths of Ateneo Blue Eagles players Rene Bataclan and Divine Adili were not accidental. They noted that most players were 700 meters from the resort, and video evidence showed they were aware of the sea conditions. Coach Tab Baldwin has been summoned for questioning but has yet to appear, leading to an immigration lookout bulletin order against him and other Ateneo coaches. Two Ateneo players, Sam Reyes and Kiefer Alas, shared their harrowing experience during the team-building event, emphasizing that they almost drowned as well and critiquing the lack of adequate safety measures.
President Bongbong Marcos arrived in Kazan, Russia, to co-chair the ASEAN-Russia commemorative summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit will review 35 years of relations and discuss strengthening cooperation in energy and food security, trade, and investment. President Marcos and President Putin are also set for a bilateral meeting to discuss 50 years of diplomatic relations and enhanced cooperation, especially considering the impact of Middle East tensions on the Philippines. Russia is a major global producer and exporter of natural gas.
An MRT3 train experienced a sudden stop between Buendia and Guadalupe Stations, leaving passengers to walk on the tracks. The incident caused limited operations from North Avenue to Shaw Boulevard during rush hour. The Department of Transportation has requested an explanation from MRT3 and its maintenance provider, Sumitomo Corporation. Sumitomo and TES Philippines Inc. have apologized and are investigating to prevent future mishaps, even as MRT3 is currently offering free rides.
The House of Representatives passed an anti-political dynasty bill, although it faces criticism for allowing relatives to run for different positions in different areas. House Speaker Boogie D welcomed the new Senate leadership, hoping for smoother legislative progress. While the bill passed the House, Congressman Marcos expressed doubts about its passage in the Senate, citing the presence of political dynasties in the upper chamber. The Makabayan Bloc vows to monitor the bill's journey through the Senate.
The June 3 decision by the Senate to amend impeachment trial rules, allowing the election of a presiding officer in cases not involving the President, has implications for Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. Senator Panfilo Lacson stated that Senator Chiz Escudero is the majority's choice for presiding officer. Attorney Paulo Tamasay of UP College of Law suggests that the election of a new Senate President might affect the petition filed by former Senate President Cayetano in the Supreme Court concerning the legality of the June 3 session and its amendments.
A woman crossing a pedestrian lane in Quezon City was fatally struck and run over by a dump truck. The driver claimed he thought he hit a pothole and did not see the woman due to a blind spot. He was later stopped by a traffic enforcer. The driver has been taken into custody by the Quezon City Police District and faces charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide. He issued a heartfelt apology to the victim's family, expressing his remorse.
Amidst the special session, the promotions of five Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals, previously delayed by Senate leadership disputes, were finally confirmed. Additionally, 85 officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs had their appointments confirmed. Despite objections from Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who argued against reappointments after the June 3 adjournment, the majority maintained that the Commission on Appointments operates independently of congressional sessions. Senator Tulfo also noted that the AICS bill could not be ratified yet due to House disagreements.