PH Senate resumes session, eyes passage of priority bills

The Senate reconvened on Monday (May 4, 2026) following a month-long recess and lawmakers are now set to address a broad legislative agenda focused on priority measures identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

Among the key items for consideration are proposals focused on governance and political reform. These include the Anti-Political Dynasty bill, which aims to regulate political succession within families, and the Party-List Reform Act, designed to improve representation in the House of Representatives.

Also up for discussion are the Independent People’s Commission Act and the proposed Right to Information Act, both geared toward enhancing transparency, accountability, and public oversight of government institutions.

Economic and fiscal legislation is likewise expected to be a major focus. Lawmakers are set to deliberate on amendments to the Bank Secrecy Law, as well as proposed revisions to the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act to improve the use of funds in the sector. A review of the Estate Tax Amnesty program is also on the agenda, with the goal of increasing revenue collection while simplifying compliance for taxpayers.

On the social front, senators will consider measures addressing education and poverty alleviation. These include proposed amendments to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act to strengthen the country’s conditional cash transfer system, along with the Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino program aimed at improving child nutrition in public schools. Also included is the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education program, which seeks to broaden access to educational support.

Priority bills covering energy, agriculture, and infrastructure are also expected to be taken up. These include the Waste-to-Energy Bill, proposed amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), revisions to the Rice Tariffication Law, and a measure seeking to establish a Department of Water Resources.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III emphasized that the chamber is prepared to act on the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte once these are formally transmitted.

He assured the public that the Senate would act forthwith and “with dispatch” upon receipt of the articles, stressing that the process would be carried out with urgency and in line with constitutional procedures.

According to Sotto, once the articles are received, he will promptly notify the plenary and refer the matter to the Committee on Rules for appropriate action, including setting the timetable and outlining the initial procedures for the impeachment trial.

-Paraluman News