MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda has questioned the legality of recent leadership changes in the Senate, arguing that the election of key officers and the reorganization of committees did not meet constitutional requirements.
In a statement issued Saturday, Legarda said the appointment of Senate officers, including the Senate president pro tempore, Senate secretary, and sergeant-at-arms, was invalid because only 12 senators were present during the plenary session.
Citing Article VI, Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution, Legarda stressed that a majority vote of all Senate members is required to elect Senate officers. With 24 elected senators, she said at least 13 votes are needed to constitute a majority.
Legarda also questioned the declaration of vacancies and the appointment of new committee chairpersons, noting that the Constitution requires a quorum of 13 senators for the chamber to conduct official business.
The veteran lawmaker rejected comparisons to the 1949 Supreme Court ruling in Avelino v. Cuenco, saying the case was decided under the 1935 Constitution and should not override the provisions of the current charter.
She warned that allowing leadership changes without the required majority could set a dangerous precedent, enabling future reorganizations whenever senators are absent.
“The Constitution is the guide of our democracy. It is what we must defend for the Senate, for our institutions, and above all, for every Filipino,” Legarda said.
Written by Melrose Kyrene Aquino
Melrose Kyrene Aquino is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
