MANILA: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Friday (June 12) recognised Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian as the leader of the Senate during his Independence Day speech, marking the first time he has publicly done so since the recent leadership change in the chamber.
In his customary acknowledgment of government officials at the start of his speech, Marcos recognised Gatchalian’s new role.
“House Speaker Faustino Dy and the honourable members of the House of Representatives; Senate President Pro Tem Sherwin Gatchalian,” Marcos said, then proceeded to mention the rest of officials present.
“A good day to you all,” he added.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro has repeatedly maintained that the Marcos administration recognises only Gatchalian as the leader of the Senate.
This is despite Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s insistence that he remain as the president of the upper chamber.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, Castro dismissed concerns about a constitutional crisis, saying Malacanang recognises Gatchalian as the current Senate leader.
“In the eyes of Malacanang, in the eyes of the Executive, we have nothing that can be called a constitutional crisis,” she said.
“It is clear that the leadership we support and recognise is the leadership of Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian,” Castro added. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
