A tense confrontation erupted in the Senate after minority senators staged a walkout during plenary deliberations on a proposed amendment that would allow electronic voting in the chamber.

The dispute began when members of the majority bloc attempted to revive discussions on the proposed rule change. Minority senators opposed the move, arguing that the manner in which the proposal was being discussed allegedly violated existing Senate rules and procedures.

The debate quickly escalated after Senator Rodante Marcoleta reportedly questioned the legal background of those opposing the proposal, triggering strong reactions from members of the minority bloc.

Senator Erwin Tulfo also linked the proposed electronic voting measure to recent reports that two senators could allegedly face imprisonment, further intensifying tensions on the Senate floor.

Despite objections from the minority, the majority sought to proceed with deliberations on the amendment.

As they walked out of the session hall, Senator Risa Hontiveros explained that the minority’s protest centered on what they described as procedural violations.

“Kasi mali yung gagawin nilang pagboto eh. Mali ba kaysa [sa] mga rules? Mali yung proseso. Wala pa nga debate sa substance,” Hontiveros said.

When asked why she believed the majority wanted to push the proposal immediately, she replied, "Hindi nga tayo umabot sa pag-discourse, pag-debate sa substantive kasi hindi nila sinusunod yung sariling rules.”

The walkout resulted in the loss of quorum, or the minimum number of senators required for the chamber to conduct official business.

Due to the lack of a quorum, the Senate adjourned the plenary session until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 1.

The proposed amendment on electronic voting has become a divisive issue in the chamber amid ongoing political tensions and internal disagreements within the Senate.