Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is inclined to call a special session of Congress if the Senate formally requests it and presents valid grounds, Malaca±ang said Thursday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that the President would act immediately once an official request is transmitted by the Senate leadership led by acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian. "As soon as the new leadership will send the official request for special session addressed to the President, then the President will act immediately on that," Castro stated in a Palace briefing.

According to Philippines News Agency, when asked whether Marcos is inclined to grant the request, Castro affirmed positively. "Yes, inclined ang Presidente na mag-give in to the official request for the special session," she said. Among the measures Marcos wants Congress to tackle is the proposed anti-political dynasty law, which Castro identified as one of the President's priority measures.

The possibility of a special session emerged after the Senate lost several session days due to a leadership dispute that stalled legislative proceedings. Marcos earlier expressed concern that disruptions in the Senate could affect the passage of priority measures intended to address pressing economic concerns, including the impact of rising global oil prices.

Gatchalian revealed that senators are studying the need for a special session to address pending measures and appointments, including the confirmation of five military generals whose promotions could be affected if Congress fails to act before they reach mandatory retirement age. The Senate is also reviewing other pending bills and matters delayed by the suspension of regular sessions.