Solid Bloc 11 calls for Cayetano’s resignation over missed Senate sessions

The “Solid Bloc 11,” or the minority bloc on Tuesday, June 2, urged Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano to resign, alleging that he violated Senate rules and failed in his leadership duties after the chamber was unable to convene plenary sessions for two straight days.

In a joint statement, the minority bloc criticized Cayetano for what it described as a failure to fulfill his responsibilities as Senate leader, following another day in which members of the majority bloc did not show up for session.

“What happened today was a clear abandonment of responsibility, a dereliction of duty, and a blatant disregard of the rules that govern this institution, because the Senate cannot be made to stop working simply because its presiding officer refuses to lead,” the statement read.

The group pointed to Rule XIV, Section 41 of the Senate Rules, which provides that the Senate President may postpone a session only after consulting both the Majority Leader and the Minority Leader. According to the minority bloc, the required consultation did not take place.

“Under Rule XIV, Sec. 41 of the Rules of the Senate, the Senate President may postpone the holding of the session AFTER consultation with the Majority Leader AND the Minority Leader. That rule was violated,” the statement said.

The senators argued that the issue went beyond a technical breach of procedure, saying it reflected a disregard for Senate rules, the institution itself, and the public it serves.

“Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano should resign as he has shown that he cannot function as the leader of the Senate anymore,” the statement said.