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Senator Gatchalian asserts that the Value Added Tax (VAT) on system loss can be removed without new legislation and that distribution utilities, not consumers, should bear the cost of technical system loss. He argues for a shift in responsibility to alleviate consumer burden.
Philippine Senate President Win Gatchalian has expressed support for the proposed Pax Silica initiative, viewing it as a significant economic opportunity while also cautioning about potential environmental and displacement risks.
President Marcos has approved the release of Vice President Sara Duterte's tax records for her impeachment trial, with the Palace asserting the move is lawful and not politically motivated. The defense has remained silent on the development, while the prosecution clarifies the approval is not a blessing for the impeachment.
President Marcos' fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) outlined priority bills and promises, but also drew criticism from labor groups for its silence on wages and the sugar industry. Netizens, economists, and politicians offered varied reactions and analyses of the speech.
Air Force canine units inspected the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) building in Pasay City following reports of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found near the Department of Justice (DOJ) building and Senate in Manila.
Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian stated that government programs should not be credited to individuals for personal gains, promising public officials will not be present during aid distribution.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has urged for expanded powers for the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to audit not only distribution fees but also the pass-through costs associated with electricity generation.
The impeachment court has affirmed its impartiality despite criticisms regarding irrelevant manifestations during the trial. This stance emphasizes the court's commitment to a fair process.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is pushing for legislation to specifically address nihilistic violent extremism among minors, citing concerns over online radicalization and school violence.
Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has rejected proposals to lower the age of criminal responsibility, instead advocating for a ban on social media for minors aged 16 and below.
A shooting incident at a school in Tacloban City, Philippines, resulted in 13 students being wounded. Two suspects, including a minor, have been taken into custody, and the guns used were linked to a police officer and a security agency.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has been elected as the new Senate President, a move that President Marcos hopes will end the Senate gridlock. Gatchalian noted that Alan Cayetano has not yet personally congratulated him following the Senate revamp, though PDP-Laban recognizes his new position.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced that the Philippine Senate will not request the lifting of Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s court-imposed preventive suspension.
A House Deputy Speaker stated that a single day for a special session would suffice to address unpassed measures, provided the Senate resolves its leadership issues.
The Philippine House of Representatives is ready to hold the special session called by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday to address pressing concerns and act on priority bills, with lawmakers urged to participate to tackle the legislative agenda.
Reports indicate that at least three senators are being courted to switch allegiance, potentially forming a majority that would install Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as the new Senate president.
The Philippine Senate's website was defaced by a hacktivist group demanding public accountability, prompting an investigation by the PNP and DICT. Authorities confirmed no sensitive data was compromised, but the incident highlights a broader security threat against the Senate.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian asserted operational control of the Philippine Senate, citing the completion of signature transfers with Landbank as evidence.
Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has ordered remote work for the Senate amid reports of serious security threats to the chamber. The move has led to increased security measures by the DILG and NCRPO, though details of the threats remain undisclosed.
The Philippine Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, initially led by Senator Erwin Tulfo before his inhibition, is conducting a probe into an alleged flood control scheme. The investigation has faced challenges, including the snubbing of a meeting by 18 alleged 'bodyguards' linked to the issue.
A leadership dispute in the Philippine Senate has prompted calls for all senators to attend a special session to resolve the issue and address pending appointments. Experts advise against Supreme Court intervention and warn a new minority against boycotting the session.
A high school teacher has petitioned the Supreme Court to uphold the legality of the Senate's June 3 session, during which a quorum was established and the chamber reorganized after a two-day absence by the majority.
The House impeachment team is set to recognize Win Gatchalian's leadership, with former Education Secretary Armin Luistro praising Gatchalian as capable and studious enough to preside over an impeachment trial.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has invoked a 1949 Supreme Court decision to declare the Senate session held on June 3, which installed Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian as Senate president pro tempore, as 'lawful and valid'.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian stated that no resource persons would be allowed inside the session hall as the Senate President's bloc moves to proceed with a Blue Ribbon Committee hearing.
Following a Senate shakeup, two factions are battling for control, with conflicting orders issued regarding Senate operations. Senator Cayetano ordered the premises kept open, while Senator Gatchalian directed a work-from-home setup.
The Supreme Court clarified that no ruling has been made yet regarding Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa's petition concerning the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction, amidst other related legal and political developments.
The Philippine Senate is undergoing a leadership reshuffle, including Senator Ping Lacson's removal as Blue Ribbon head, following developments in the arrest warrant against Senator Bato dela Rosa. The Supreme Court's rejection of a Temporary Restraining Order against the warrant has put law enforcement on alert for his potential arrest.
Michal Gatchalian, who bravely exposed sexual abuse by a priest in the Philippines as an altar boy, has now become a lawyer dedicated to assisting other victims of similar abuse.
Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian has stated that the lifeline subsidy provided by the 4Ps program is too small to be the cause of recent electric bill shock.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian of the Philippines advocated for enhanced teacher training programs to resolve the issue of educators being assigned subjects outside their college majors.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is calling for an immediate inter-agency government response in the Philippines to safeguard jobs and provide financial support to micro, small, and medium enterprises affected by the economic repercussions of the Middle East conflict.
A Philippine Senate committee chairperson is advocating for a P1,500 monthly aid for minimum wage earners as an alternative to an across-the-board wage hike, citing decreased purchasing power amidst the ongoing crisis.
An Iranian demand for tolls in the Strait of Hormuz is being viewed as a potential step away from the rules-based world order, though some doubt its realism. Meanwhile, rules regarding which countries' ships are allowed passage through the strait have been clarified.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is advocating for a measure to "unbundle" the retail price of petroleum products in the Philippines to reveal oil companies' true profit margins and supports a windfall tax to prevent profiteering.
Metro Manila public transport drivers will receive a P5,000 fuel subsidy starting Tuesday, March 17, to help cope with rising fuel prices amid tensions in the Middle East, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said.
MANILA, Philippines — Gas stations and oil companies must be held accountable for profiteering if they raise prices ahead of scheduled adjustments, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson and Sen. Win Gatchalian said on Sunday. The two made the remarks in separate statements following reports of increased fuel prices in some gasoline establishments shortly after
MANILA, Philippines — Twelve senators have signed a committee report banning political dynasties in the Philippines up to the second degree of consanguinity and affinity. These senators are as follows: Risa Hontiveros, Erwin Tulfo, JV Ejercito, Kiko Pangilinan, Ping Lacson, Loren Legarda, Sherwin Gatchalian, Robin Padilla, Imee Marcos, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Bam Aquino, and Lito
Senate President Win Gatchalian called on the Department of Education and local government units to quickly repair and replace classrooms damaged by recent tropical cyclones and enhanced monsoons.
Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian visited survivors of a fatal landslide in Barangay Guisad Surong, Baguio City, and offered condolences to families of 10 other residents who died in related calamities.
The Philippine Palace is seeking stakeholder input on the proposal to scrap electricity system loss charges, a move that could significantly impact consumers' bills but poses a substantial cost for utility companies.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian stated that getting the Philippine economy back on track is the most urgent priority for the Senate as the 20th Congress opened its second regular session.
Philippine lawmakers are advocating for the swift approval of the 2027 national budget and pushing for reforms to address the country's economic issues ahead of the State of the Nation Address 2026.
Senators Gatchalian and Tulfo stated that the Philippine Senate cannot afford Vice President Sara Duterte's request for catering services. They cited budget limitations as the reason for denying the request.
The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is ongoing, with discussions focusing on alleged confidential funds and the potential for President Marcos to allow access to financial records. Despite calls to halt the proceedings, the trial continues, with legal experts and politicians weighing in on its progress and potential duration.
The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has commenced in the Senate, with Senator Escudero presiding. Prosecutors presented a video clip of Duterte's past remarks, alleging they imply an intent to harm the president, while the defense team held a press conference after the second day of proceedings.
Preparations are in full swing for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, scheduled to begin on July 6, with the Senate impeachment court approving 92 trial days. Discussions include potential lower conviction thresholds, rules for private prosecutors, and the opening of tax records, while the Vice President's camp opposes allowing private prosecutors to question witnesses.
The Baguio City Mayor’s Office has confirmed that a statement, which purportedly showed Mayor Magalong criticizing Villanueva for joining the Gatchalian bloc, is fake.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian denied claims by Alan Peter Cayetano that the new majority is attempting to control an impeachment trial and cover up issues.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian stated that the investigation into flood control will continue if new witnesses or evidence come to light. The probe aims to uncover further details regarding the issue.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced that the Philippine Senate will not conduct an independent investigation into a shooting incident that occurred on May 13, leaving the probe to other authorities.
New Senate committee leaders and members are elected during the special session.
Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian is considering legal action against former congressman Mike Defensor for announcing a supposed Senate committee hearing without authority.
Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced that the Senate would resume its regular on-site operations, maintaining strict heightened security protocols.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao-Dy met in General Santos City to inspect areas affected by a recent earthquake. Gatchalian also affirmed that banks recognize him as a Senate signatory.
Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian has dismissed Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s proposal for a power-sharing arrangement in the Senate, insisting on the leadership changes adopted by the new majority.
Senate history and legal opinions confirm that a 12-member quorum is sufficient and legal for the Senate to conduct business and reorganize.
Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian’s bloc may have already secured the 13th vote necessary to officially cement its control over the chamber, Sen. JV Ejercito said yesterday.
The Philippine House of Representatives has recognized Senator Sherwin Gatchalian's leadership in the Senate amidst an ongoing internal dispute. This recognition comes as the House urges the Senate to resolve its row to avoid delays in potential impeachment trials.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian confirmed coordination for the transfer of Curlee Discaya to the Philippine National Police (PNP). Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla stated that Discaya would be turned over to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on June 8.
A leadership dispute in the Philippine Senate escalated on Thursday, June 4, with former Senate President Franklin Drilon stating that Senator Sherwin Gatchalian's leadership is valid unless the Supreme Court rules otherwise. Drilon also suggested that the Supreme Court's intervention is needed to resolve the ongoing row.
The prosecution team for Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial will follow the directives of acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, according to Batangas Representative Ralph Recto, amidst an ongoing dispute over who will preside over the trial.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has assumed the role of acting Senate President, requesting DILG chief Remulla to oversee Senate security. He announced that there would be no official business on June 4, allowing Senate staff to work from home.
The Philippine government is addressing various domestic issues, including stricter fire prevention, school overcrowding, and infrastructure projects like MRT-7, while also engaging in international relations with a state visit from Vietnam's General Secretary and President.
Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III revealed that he was the one who proposed Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as the minority's candidate to replace Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano amidst the ongoing leadership struggle.
Senator Mark Villar has been elected as the new chairman of the Senate finance committee, taking over the position from Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.
The Philippine House of Representatives has approved articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte, with her camp stating readiness for a Senate trial. The vote count and proceedings were closely monitored amidst political tensions.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian laments that legitimate infrastructure projects are being impacted by ongoing scandals involving flood control projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Philippines.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian emphasized the need for improved teacher education to enhance training and passing rates in licensure examinations for teachers in the Philippines.
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has the power to take over oil companies’ operations and potentially impose a price freeze if essential oil products like liquefied petroleum gas…
Australia's eSafety commissioner is actively investigating major social media companies for potential non-compliance with the ban on users under 16, with authorities examining possible violations and preparing for potential court action.
The Middle East conflict continues to drive global economic concerns, with Europe bracing for a supply crunch and price shock, Euro zone consumers turning gloomier, and developing Asia and Pacific facing potential inflation hikes. European shares and global stocks and bonds have slid as the crisis pushes oil prices above $105, exacerbating a war-fuelled energy crisis felt across various sectors and regions.
A newly established Philippine Senate ad hoc committee, chaired by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, is scheduled to conduct its inaugural hearing on Tuesday to address the Middle East crisis response.
MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate’s committee on finance, said the government could tap billions of pesos from existing disaster and contingency funds if…
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warns that the Philippine government could face a P300 billion revenue shortfall if excise taxes are cut for one year.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian stated that the Philippine Senate may utilize Saturdays to conduct committee and budget hearings if suspensions continue, to make up for missed days.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has called on the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to ensure the rural electrification program is completed by 2028, emphasizing the importance of electricity access for Filipinos.
Senators Estrada and Marcoleta have been appointed to chair Senate committees, despite their current detention. The appointments have drawn attention to the process of committee leadership selection.
The Philippine Senate, under Senator Gatchalian, has outlined its priority agenda, focusing on addressing the high cost of basic goods and electricity, creating jobs, and improving infrastructure. These legislative efforts aim to ramp up the economy and ease the financial burden on citizens.
The Philippines is preparing for President Marcos' 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA), with security tightened and road closures implemented in Manila. Various officials and media outlets are outlining expectations and coverage plans for the event, which is anticipated to address national issues like education and agriculture.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced that the Philippine Senate might rent conference rooms at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) for 2027 budget hearings, citing an ongoing impeachment trial.
Senator-judges have been urged to remain impartial, despite rules setting no penalties for bias, as Senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed hurt over online memes.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is pushing for broader government powers to prevent oil companies from imposing 'unreasonable' fuel prices on consumers, despite the Philippines' deregulated downstream oil industry.
Philippine legislators are anticipating a contentious bicameral conference over an anti-dynasty bill, while Senator Sherwin Gatchalian plans to push for social media restrictions for minors. These legislative efforts address concerns about political power concentration and youth online safety.
Pre-trial proceedings for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte are facing delays, with both prosecution and defense teams disagreeing on procedures like joint marking of documents and witness identification. The prosecution is seeking more pre-trial days, while the defense requests at least 30 trial days and has refused common markings.
The Philippine Senate is on track to begin Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial on July 6, with preparations underway for security and pre-trial matters. Discussions have included the conviction threshold and the potential role of Senator Chiz Escudero as presiding officer, which some groups oppose due to concerns about Senate credibility.
The United States and Iran have signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding to end the war in the Middle East, with experts weighing in on the agreement and its implications. The deal includes a $300 billion reconstruction fund and has prompted calls for reduced oil prices.
"Senate President Gatchalian is strong on his own merits," Hontiveros said.
Senator Mark Villar was not among the signatories of a Supreme Court petition filed by the Cayetano bloc to nullify Senate proceedings that appointed Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.
The Senate bloc led by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano has asked the Supreme Court to reverse the recent revamp of Senate leadership under Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian and void the June 3 session.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. publicly acknowledged Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as a Senate leader during his Independence Day speech, where he also urged Filipinos to protect the truth from distortion.
The Philippine Senate implemented heightened security measures and a temporary work-from-home setup for its employees due to a validated security threat, with Senator Gatchalian assuring that employee pay would not be affected by the situation or any leadership disputes.
A powerful M7.8 earthquake has struck Mindanao, Philippines, leading to over 22,900 evacuations and significant damage to homes and infrastructure. Local and international bodies are appealing for aid to support the victims, with President Marcos Jr. expected to visit the affected areas.
Malacañang has urged senators aligned with acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian to reject an “interim administrative arrangement” proposed by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, who claims to remain the chamber’s president.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has rejected the proposal for signature sharing with Alan Cayetano's camp, which is seeking an interim administrative setup with a new Senate majority.
Senate President pro tempore Sherwin Gatchalian has requested an investigation into frequent red and yellow alerts from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and recent power interruptions across Luzon and Visayas.
A Blue Ribbon Committee hearing in the Philippine Senate has drawn significant controversy, with accusations of it being a 'bogus' and 'staged' event aimed at destabilization or a 'naked grab for power.' Lawmakers have criticized the proceedings, with some suggesting it was an attempt to divert attention from impeachment efforts.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Robin Padilla escorted 'ex-Marines' to the Senate plenary hall, an event described as 'tulakan' tales, amidst an ongoing power struggle for Senate control between the Gatchalian and Cayetano blocs.
The Philippine Palace has recognized the Gatchalian bloc as the Senate majority, reflecting a significant divide in Philippine politics between factions aligned with the Marcoses or the Dutertes.
The Philippine Senate experienced a significant leadership change as Senator Francis Escudero was elected Senate President, replacing Alan Peter Cayetano. The move, which involved a majority vote and the appointment of new committee chairpersons, was met with protests from Cayetano, who insisted he remained the legitimate leader.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is reportedly gaining significant backing from both minority and majority groups, including a potential coalition, in his bid for the Senate presidency. Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri have expressed hopes and plans to secure Gatchalian in the top post.
Discussions are emerging about the possibility of a Republican candidate being elected governor in the traditionally Democratic state of California. This reflects a potential shift or increased competitiveness in the state's political landscape.
Multiple government agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Ombudsman, have launched investigations into a shooting incident and subsequent chaos at the Senate. Senator Bato dela Rosa is now under an immigration lookout order as authorities probe his involvement and whereabouts, amid scrutiny of security protocols and missing CCTV footage.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian defended Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries against public criticism linking them to high Meralco generation charges. He clarified that the program did not cause the recent electricity bill shock.
Norway's government announced plans to ban social media use for children under 16, with a legislative proposal expected this year. This initiative aims to protect minors from potential harms associated with social media platforms.
Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is calling for an immediate inter-agency government response to safeguard jobs and provide financial support to micro, small, and medium enterprises, as the Middle East conflict's economic repercussions, including soaring LPG prices, significantly impact Filipino street food vendors.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is pursuing legal and protective actions against a barangay official in Camarines Sur following allegations of harassment and abuse committed by his two sons against several children, a case brought to light by a girl seeking President Marcos's help.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has urged the Philippine government to strengthen mental health programs in response to an increase in suicide cases reported in Metro Manila.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a national energy emergency in the Philippines due to soaring oil prices and supply risks from the Middle East conflict, with the House of Representatives now prepared to move with urgency to deliver relief measures as the country faces an 'imminent danger of a critically low energy supply'.
Senator Gatchalian warned that suspending the fuel excise tax would result in a P136 billion revenue loss, impacting government services.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has criticized the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for not yet bidding out any infrastructure projects under the 2026 national budget, warning of sluggish government spending.
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday led the launch of a social protection services center in Barangay Tayud, Municipality of Liloan, Cebu. Marcos arrived at the Pag-Abot Processing Center at 10:30 a.m. and was welcomed by Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco. READ: Palace on 2028 elections: Aspirants