Malacañang on Wednesday extended its congratulations to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian following his election as Senate President, as the executive branch called on Congress to immediately act on priority legislative measures during a special session.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, in a statement, also expressed appreciation to House Speaker Faustino “Bodjie” Dy III and members of both chambers of Congress, citing their readiness to perform their constitutional duties amid urgent national concerns.
“Alam natin ang hangad ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. — mabilis at maayos na paglilingkod para sa taumbayan,” Castro said, underscoring the administration’s push for efficient public service delivery.
Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. asked both chambers of Congress to convene via a special session of Congress on Wednesday to fast-track key measures intended to address the economic and social impact of ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict in the Middle East, as well as rising concerns over food and energy security.
The Palace noted that recent developments in the Senate, including leadership changes and the suspension of sessions, have contributed to delays in the passage of key legislation and the confirmation of several presidential appointments, including promotions of uniformed personnel.
“Ang mga priority legislative bills ay dapat nang maisabatas para lalo pang mapagtibay at mapalawak ang tulong ng pamahalaan sa ating mga kababayan,” Castro said, stressing the need to expedite measures aimed at strengthening government assistance programs.
The special session is expected to focus on priority bills aligned with the administration’s legislative agenda, particularly those aimed at stabilizing essential services and mitigating the impact of external economic pressures on Filipino households.