Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday said the chamber must remain independent and anchored on truth as it faces political pressure and national challenges.
Speaking at the Senate building on May 18, 2026, Cayetano acknowledged the demands of leading the Senate in a shifting political environment.
“It is difficult to navigate as Senate President. I don’t expect you to agree with all of our decisions, but I’d like to tell you the truth,” the Senate President said.
He said his leadership approach has been shaped by experience, trust-building, and a focus on the responsibilities of the institution beyond personal position or politics.
Cayetano emphasized that his engagement with public officials has been guided by the need to preserve Senate independence while maintaining open communication across institutions.
“I started talking to people in the administration and simply say, ‘What we can offer you is collaboration, not capitulation. We will not capitulate.’ Hindi pwedeng under the thumb ang Senate. The Senate cannot be dependent,” he said.
Despite tensions and competing pressures, he said the Senate continues to carry out its mandate even in periods of crisis.
“Lalo akong nag-o-overtime in that context. We’re not here for or against anyone, we’re here to do our job,” he said.
“May crisis. Remember during crises, there’s also a great opportunity. Nandoon y’ung revival kasi naroon y’ung desperation ng tao,” he said.
He also called for prayer focused on clarity and the removal of barriers to effective governance, adding that truth remains central to institutional reform and direction.
As the Senate deals with impeachment proceedings and wider political pressure, he said its role will still be focused on protecting independence while remaining grounded on truth and accountability.
“Please pray that whatever plans the Lord has, there will be no spiritual, physical blockages. If the Holy Spirit is going to go around the Philippines it’s going to change us, it’s going to start with the truth,” he said.