President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called Congress to a special session on June 17, 2026 to urgently act on priority measures aimed at expanding social protection, education support, healthcare access and assistance to vulnerable sectors.
Under Proclamation No. 1318, Marcos directed Congress to convene during its recess to take up legislative proposals that the administration said require immediate action amid continuing challenges, including the recent Mindanao earthquake and other concerns affecting Filipino families.
“The challenges confronting our people demand urgent action. Families affected by the recent earthquake in Mindanao require immediate assistance. Students need continued support to pursue their education. Our senior citizens deserve better healthcare. Our children must have better nutrition and vulnerable sectors need stronger protection,” Marcos said.
The proclamation cited Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution, which authorizes the President to call Congress to a special session at any time.
Among the priority measures listed for consideration are the proposed National Center for Geriatric Health, amendments to the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education Act, the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations Act, amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, the Last Mile and GIDA Schools Act, amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Law, and the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program.
Marcos said government work must continue despite the congressional break, stressing that public needs should remain the government’s central concern.
“The needs of the Filipino people do not pause when Congress is not in session. The government must continue to respond, and the welfare of every Filipino must remain our highest priority,” he said.
The special session is also expected to allow the Commission on Appointments to convene and act on pending appointments in the Cabinet, military and foreign service.
Malacañang said the administration expects lawmakers to focus on urgent measures that would deliver timely assistance and strengthen government support for Filipinos in need.