Manila: Sen. Risa Hontiveros on Thursday rejected Sen. Robinhood Padilla's assertion that global conflicts and looming climate threats could qualify as 'force majeure' grounds for allowing remote participation in Senate sessions. Hontiveros criticized Padilla's interpretation, emphasizing that these events should not be considered valid reasons for remote Senate work.
According to Philippines News Agency, Padilla defended proposals to amend Senate rules by citing war, terrorism, and potential climate-related emergencies as part of the 'broader meaning' of force majeure. He argued that force majeure encompasses events beyond the control of affected parties, including natural disasters, war, terrorism, riots, labor strikes, government actions, and possible severe El Ni±o conditions forecast later this year.
Hontiveros, however, disagreed with Padilla's reasoning. In an interview, she insisted that the Middle East conflict and the resulting oil crisis should compel senators to physically attend Senate sessions to address the impact on Filipinos. She stated that these issues necessitate physical presence and active participation in Senate duties.
Padilla, in his post, highlighted international warnings about a potential strong El Ni±o phenomenon that could intensify toward late 2026 and early 2027, affecting numerous provinces with below-normal rainfall. He also challenged the previous Senate majority's claim of being 'pro-active' amid opposition to proposals for remote participation.
The debate originated from a proposal by Sen. Rodante Marcoleta to amend Rule 14, Section 41 of the Senate rules. The amendment would permit senators, for justifiable reasons, to attend and participate in sessions through teleconference, video conference, or other reliable electronic means. Currently, remote sessions are allowed only during force majeure events or national emergencies that prevent the Senate from convening physically.
The proposed amendment was brought to attention after Sen. Ronald dela Rosa briefly returned to the Senate on May 11 following months of absence. He participated in the Senate leadership change vote and later left amid attempts to arrest him over an International Criminal Court warrant. The Department of Justice has since described Dela Rosa as a fugitive, and authorities have been ordered to arrest him.
