Screengrab via viral videos online

Senator Robin Padilla has denied accusations that he started a confrontation inside the Senate, saying available CCTV footage and media video footage will show that he was instead trying to de-escalate tensions during a chaotic encounter involving Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and a group of former Marine officers.

In a statement posted on social media, Padilla said he was compelled to speak out after claims circulated that he had triggered the commotion at the Senate lobby during Thursday’s highly charged proceedings.

The senator stressed that he has long held Remulla in high regard, recalling the Cabinet secretary’s accomplishments in Cavite when he served as governor. Padilla said he has consistently shown respect toward Remulla and recognized his contributions, particularly in the province’s healthcare programs.

Padilla also rejected suggestions that he was attempting to interfere with anyone’s authority or create disorder, saying such actions would go against the values he strives to follow as a Muslim.

The confrontation unfolded amid an already tense atmosphere in the Senate, where rival factions remain locked in a leadership dispute following the chamber's recent reorganization and the installation of Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian.

According to accounts from those present, tensions rose when a group of 18 former Marine officers—who claimed to have served as alleged bagmen for former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and Sen. Pia Cayetano—arrived at the Senate to participate in a controversial Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on alleged flood control irregularities.

Reports indicated that a heated exchange occurred after Remulla allegedly tried to stop the group from entering the Senate session hall. The situation quickly escalated, drawing the attention of senators, security personnel, and members of the media covering the proceedings.

Videos that later circulated online showed a brief physical encounter involving Padilla and Remulla as people crowded the hallway leading to the hearing venue.

As the incident gained attention, Remulla denied accusations that he blocked the entry of the former Marines.

The DILG secretary said he was already leaving the area when the confrontation happened and insisted that he had not prevented anyone from entering.

Remulla pointed out that he was alone at the time, questioning claims that he had physically obstructed a group attempting to enter the building.

For his part, Padilla maintained that he did not provoke the confrontation and said available video footage would support his account that he was calling for calm from the very beginning of the encounter.

The senator's statement comes as political tensions continue to escalate inside the Senate following the dramatic leadership change that removed Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano and ushered in a new majority coalition. The ongoing dispute has fueled disagreements over committee hearings, Senate authority, and the handling of politically sensitive investigations.

The controversy is unfolding at a critical time for the Senate, which is expected to tackle several major national issues, including preparations for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Despite the viral videos and mounting political tensions, Padilla sought to ease concerns by emphasizing that he harbors no ill feelings toward Remulla and continues to respect the Cabinet official.

The senator ended his statement with a prayer and an appeal for understanding, expressing hope that the truth surrounding the incident would ultimately be established through video evidence and eyewitness accounts.