Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano strongly criticized minority lawmakers and rejected claims that the Senate was in disarray following recent security-related tensions during a Facebook Live where he defended the chamber’s actions and ongoing impeachment preparations.
Cayetano expressed frustration over what he described as politicized reactions and lack of solidarity during the incident. “Let me express my sadness, my regret. First time po na ganito nangyari sa Senate… Usually po, may threat pa lang sa Senate, pupunta na diyan lahat to see how… But makita nyo naman po, parang bula na wala po yung buong minority,” he said, lamenting what he viewed as the absence of minority senators during critical moments.
He also criticized subsequent accusations against the majority bloc, arguing that narratives were being shaped after the situation had stabilized.
“Pagkatapos, wala kaming narinig… Nung sinabi lang ni Sen. Camille that we’re okay, dun lang nagparamdam yung iba… pinagbibintangan pa ang majority at ang Senado,” Cayetano added, maintaining that the Senate has never experienced such an incident in its institutional history.
Addressing allegations regarding the use of force and security protocols, Cayetano defended the Senate’s response while acknowledging concerns raised.
“Traumatize silang lahat. Sabihin nyo may mali na mag-warning shot, sige na po, may mali,” he said, emphasizing the emotional impact on those present while insisting actions were taken in response to perceived threats.
He further alleged that political motivations were influencing how the incident was being interpreted, claiming that some actors prioritized political positioning over institutional stability.
“Mas importante sa inyo ang 2028, mas importante sa inyo ang Senate Presidency, kaysa sa buhay ng mga kasamahan ninyo,” Cayetano said, adding that efforts to “flip the narrative” were unfairly portraying the Senate as unstable.
Cayetano also questioned the circumstances surrounding law enforcement presence inside the Senate premises, arguing that conflicting directives contributed to confusion.
He suggested responsibility should be examined at multiple levels, stating that decisions involving the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other authorities played a role in the escalation.
He reiterated his position that the Senate remains functional and prepared to proceed with its constitutional duties, including impeachment proceedings, despite political tensions.
“Why? Kailan naging crime ang magpalit ng Senate President?” he said, defending recent leadership changes and urging critics to focus on facts rather than political interpretation.
