A total of 213 lawmakers attend House special session on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as leaders welcome Sherwin Gatchalian as new Senate President and call for closer coordination between the two chambers ahead of the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos described Gatchalian as “level-headed,” saying the trait is essential amid the current political climate.

“On behalf of the House, we would like to congratulate Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian. We look forward to working with him,” Marcos said.

Marcos added that cooperation between the two chambers of Congress is crucial at this time, emphasizing the need for coordination rather than conflict.

“I worked with him during my time as a congressman. I know how level-headed he can be, so I think that’s exactly what this current political climate needs,” he said.

Marcos also expressed optimism that lawmakers would move past recent tensions in the Senate and refocus on legislative work, particularly with the Senate’s role in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

The House leadership said it expects smoother coordination between the House and the Senate, noting the importance of the Senate’s function as an impeachment court when the trial begins in July.