Former Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has warned that the Philippine Senate is facing a serious decline in public trust amid allegations of misconduct, internal divisions, and recent security incidents that have shaken the institution.

In a detailed statement, Pimentel said the Senate has recently been “in the news lately, and not for good reasons,” citing reports of alleged corruption and misconduct involving some lawmakers, as well as perceptions of disorder and political infighting.

He noted that growing public sentiment reflects disappointment in the chamber, which many Filipinos now describe as “magulo”—chaotic and lacking direction. “As we all know, this word means chaotic, disorganized, or lacking direction,” he said, adding that similar concerns are now being reflected in broader views of government and society.

Pimentel also pointed to recent Senate-related controversies, including leadership changes and a reported shooting incident within Senate premises, which he said “shocked the nation and crystallized its image of an institution in total chaos.”

He further emphasized that leadership is central to reform, calling for a Senate leader capable of building consensus in a “deeply fractured” chamber. “Leadership matters. It can unite; it can divide,” he said, urging a focus on legislation addressing unemployment, inflation, transport costs, food security, and healthcare affordability.

Pimentel also underscored the importance of handling the impeachment proceedings involving Vice President Sara Duterte with fairness and due process. He said the Senate, acting as an impeachment court, must ensure impartiality while avoiding actions that could be seen as unconstitutional.

“The senators must decide the case based on evidence and conscience,” he said, adding that what matters most is “the integrity of the process itself.”