New Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday said the change in Senate leadership was not driven by the looming impeachment proceedings expected to reach the chamber but by the need to unite in order to ease the heavy burden Filipinos are bearing.

Cayetano formally assumed the Senate presidency amid what he described as a period of overlapping national and global crises, including corruption issues, economic pressures, geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological change.

In his speech, Cayetano pointed to the growing burden being felt by ordinary Filipinos, saying national leaders must respond with unity instead of political division.

“In every crisis, there are big winners and there are big losers. Unfortunately, it is the poorest of the poor who are always the losers. So, I urge all of you, let’s unite [and] let’s discuss,” he said after taking his oath of office on May 11.

Cayetano said the Senate must remain focused on constitutional duty and national stability despite the political tensions surrounding the issue of the impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.

“Before us might be the impeachment [trial], but let me make it very clear. May mga lumabas sa news – at hindi ko kayo sinisisi kung sinasabi niyo sa news – na ang pagpalit ng leadership ay tungkol sa impeachment. Hindi po,” “The impeachment is enshrined in the Constitution. The Bible says the truth shall set us free,” he said.

As a lawyer, Cayetano stressed that the impeachment process must remain guided by the Constitution, evidence, and truth rather than political affiliations.

“The impeachment is enshrined in the Constitution. The Bible says the truth shall set us free,” he said. “The impeachment will be much, much more than dismissing a complaint because of political affiliation. And it is also much, much more than convicting someone without evidence. Parehong hindi pwede iyon. Kailangan guided tayo by the truth, guided by evidence.”

Despite political differences inside the chamber, Cayetano urged senators to continue working together as the Senate confronts major national issues.

“I take a step forward, my dear colleagues, and offer myself to serve you… I am here to respect the Office of the President, the Office of the Vice President, the House of Representatives, and each one of you,” he said.

Cayetano reminded senators that the Senate itself would be judged by how it handles major national issues, particularly the impeachment proceedings.

“The Senate is also on trial. So, dear colleagues, as we ask God to guide us and help us, I’d like to thank all of you who supported me today. I will do my job,” he said.

“‘Wag tayong gagawa na pagsisisihan natin, so feel free to call me out if you think mali ang direksyon,” he added. ###