Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday expressed gratitude to Senate employees for their continued service as the upper chamber faces institutional challenges.
Speaking during the Senate’s flag-raising ceremony, Gatchalian thanked employees for maintaining the quality of their work despite the difficulties confronting the institution.
“I thank you all because, despite what our institution is going through, you have continued to provide quality service to our fellow Filipinos. I ask you to trust me that we will not do anything that will damage the institution we all cherish,” Gatchalian said in a mix of Filipino and English.
The ceremony marked Gatchalian’s first flag-raising as Senate President since his election on June 17.
Gatchalian assured Senate personnel that his leadership would work to preserve the integrity of the chamber and strengthen the institution rather than diminish it.
He said his leadership would be anchored on four key principles: integrity, professionalism, dedication, and leadership by example.
“I hope that in the years we will work together, we will keep these four principles in our hearts and minds so that we can demonstrate that the Senate of the Philippines is ready to provide the most effective service to our beloved country,” he added.
Gatchalian also thanked Senate employees for helping ensure the orderly conduct of Monday afternoon’s scheduled opening of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.