The Senate minority bloc criticized the absence of the majority during a scheduled plenary session on Monday, June 1, describing it as a “boycott of duty” that disrupted legislative work and delayed key measures.

In a joint statement, the Solid Bloc 11 said they were present at the scheduled 5:00 p.m. resumption of session, ready to deliberate on pending legislation, but alleged that the majority, led by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, failed to appear and did not formally inform them of their absence.

“The Solid Bloc 11 minority senators were present today for the 5 p.m. resumption of session, ready to work, ready to vote on pending bills and ready to keep the Senate running, but the majority led by SP Cayetano chose not to show up,” the statement read.

They further claimed that the absence resulted in the postponement of several important measures, including the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, the Anti-Hospital Detention Bill, Commission on Appointments confirmations, and citizenship bills.

“Important measures were left hanging because of the majority’s boycott,” the minority bloc said.

The group also rejected claims that the situation was about Senate independence, arguing instead that it stemmed from broader issues involving legal processes and accountability linked to the arrest of Senator Jinggoy Estrada.

“This is not Senate independence but a boycott of duty,” they said, adding that the Senate should continue functioning despite political disagreements.

The minority bloc urged the Senate leadership to immediately resume sessions and continue legislative work, stressing that lawmakers are obligated to attend and perform their duties regardless of internal disputes.

“Ang Senado ay hindi pag-aari ng iisang may hawak ng gavel. Institusyon ito ng taumbayan,” the statement added.

They also called on the public to remain vigilant, warning that prolonged inactivity in the chamber could undermine legislative responsibilities and public trust in the institution.