Photo credit: Raffy Tulfo

The newly formed Senate majority is pushing back against criticism surrounding recent leadership changes in the chamber, arguing that lawmakers must move forward and focus on their constitutional duties as political tensions continue to grip the Senate.

In a joint statement released Tuesday, members of the new majority defended their actions and expressed support for Senator Francis Escudero, saying his decision to attend the session allowed the Senate to resume work on issues affecting the Filipino people.

The group said the Senate could not afford to remain paralyzed by political disagreements at a time when the country faces pressing economic and governance challenges. They stressed that lawmakers have a responsibility to continue legislating, conducting oversight, and addressing matters of public concern.

A major point of contention remains the legality of the session and the existence of a quorum.

The new majority cited the Supreme Court ruling in Avelino v. Cuenco, arguing that a quorum of 12 senators is legally recognized based on the number of members capable of discharging the functions of the Senate. The group also pointed to a 2015 Senate precedent in which the chamber continued to perform its duties despite only 12 senators being within its jurisdiction.

According to the senators, government work should not be placed on hold because of internal disputes, especially when urgent national concerns require legislative attention.

The controversy intensified after Malacañang formally recognized the new Senate majority and leadership. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace respects the decision reached by senators and considers the recent developments to be in accordance with the law.

The administration's recognition effectively strengthens the position of the new majority amid ongoing challenges from senators who continue to question the legality of the leadership shift and the interpretation of Senate rules.

The Senate leadership dispute has become one of the most closely watched political developments in recent weeks, with competing factions offering conflicting interpretations of constitutional requirements, quorum rules, and parliamentary procedure.

Beyond the debate over leadership, the conflict also carries significant implications for ongoing Senate investigations, committee assignments, and preparations for impeachment proceedings. Several hearings, including those involving alleged irregularities in flood control projects, have become entangled in the broader power struggle.

Despite the criticism, the new majority insists that its actions were guided by legal precedent and motivated by the need to keep the Senate functioning. The group argued that Filipinos expect lawmakers to show up, perform their duties, and place public service above politics.

With Malacañang now recognizing the new leadership, attention is expected to shift to whether legal challenges will be filed and how the Senate's rival factions will navigate the constitutional and political questions raised by the leadership dispute.

For now, the new majority is urging senators to move beyond the controversy and focus on addressing the country's most urgent concerns, maintaining that the Senate's work must continue regardless of political differences.