Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday, May 14, called for an impartial investigation into the recent turmoil inside the Senate, stressing that the institution must regain public trust following the controversial incidents surrounding Senate leadership changes, reported gunfire, and tensions involving Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

The call came after confusion and panic erupted inside the Senate compound following reports of gunshots and an alleged attempted breach by armed individuals on Wednesday evening.

Amid the chaos, reports later surfaced that Dela Rosa had allegedly managed to leave the Senate premises despite earlier claims that he was under protective custody inside the complex, prompting questions over security protocols and accountability.

During a press conference, Hontiveros admitted that the Senate’s reputation had suffered following the highly publicized events.

“Ang sakit marinig na laughing stock tayo,” Hontiveros said, referring to criticism directed at the Senate after the incident.

She emphasized that restoring the institution’s integrity is now an urgent responsibility, particularly for the Senate leadership.

“That is the urgent task of the Senate right now — to regain that reputation of integrity in the eyes of our people,” she said.

Hontiveros also warned that attempts to delay democratic and legal processes could undermine public confidence in government institutions.

“What do you call the perceived delay of an impeachment trial? That would be an undermining of democracy,” she said.

The senator confirmed that the minority bloc is preparing to propose a formal investigation into the incident, including determining who escalated the situation and identifying the armed groups seen inside the Senate compound.

“Sino-sino yung mga uniformado at armadong grupo doon? Sino ang may responsibilidad na nag-escalate yung sitwasyon? Sino nagsimula ng putukan? ” she asked.

She stressed that such incidents should never happen again inside the Senate.

“Never ever nangyari yan dati. Never yan dapat nangyari. And it should never happen again,” Hontiveros said.

The senator likewise expressed concern over reports that Dela Rosa may have left the Senate premises despite being under supposed protective custody, saying accountability must be established if the reports are confirmed.

“If established fact ‘yan, lalong dapat magkaroon ng investigation,” she added.

Hontiveros said the Senate must now focus on correcting institutional failures and restoring public trust amid growing political tensions and ongoing national issues.