Sen. Joel Villanueva has expressed readiness to attend a possible special session that may be called by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying it would be part of his “sacred duty” as a lawmaker.
In a recorded video message for the Jesus is Lord group posted on Facebook, Villanueva said he would report for duty if Congress is recalled while both chambers are under sine die adjournment until July 26.
“Sa pagkakataon po na magkaroon ng special session, tutuparin po natin ang ating sagradong tungkulin sa ilalim ng ating Saligang Batas,” he said.
The legislator said he plans to prioritize measures related to disaster response, including funding for relief and rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao, as well as pending bills already approved on third reading. He also cited the need to confirm the promotion of five military officials.
He also urged colleagues across different blocs to attend should a special session be convened, stressing that public service should take precedence over political divisions.
His statement comes amid continuing discussions in the Senate over leadership arrangements, which some lawmakers say may be revisited if Congress is recalled into session.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson said attendance in a special session is expected from all senators, noting that there are pending matters requiring urgent action after the chamber did not hold plenary sessions before adjournment on June 4.
Lacson said Villanueva’s position aligns with the duty of all senators to respond to a presidential call, citing pending legislation and appointments that still need action.
He also pointed to previous instances of full attendance during critical sessions, saying similar unity may be expected if a special session is convened.
While acknowledging uncertainty over whether President Marcos will call Congress back into session, Lacson said unresolved leadership issues in the Senate should be addressed to avoid procedural confusion.
He added that internal disputes should not spill over into the conduct of official proceedings, warning that competing claims to leadership could complicate Senate operations if a special session pushes through.