Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday expressed optimism that the Senate would return to normal functioning and focus on its mandate of legislating priority measures under the leadership of Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos conveyed his hope that with Gatchalian's appointment, the Senate would efficiently study, deliberate on, and pass his administration's priority bills without delay. Gatchalian was elected Senate President during a special session on Wednesday, ending a two-week stalemate in the upper chamber after Senator Alan Peter Cayetano refused to step down and acknowledge a leadership reorganization.

Marcos noted that delays in Senate sessions had halted progress on bills and stalled important appointments, causing significant concern. He emphasized the importance of efficient lawmaking, particularly amid external economic pressures, and expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Senate to fast-track the passage of essential legislation.

Through Proclamation 1318 signed on Monday, Marcos ordered lawmakers to hold a special session on Wednesday to act on priority measures. These measures aim to strengthen social protection, education, and healthcare, ensuring urgent government responses amid ongoing challenges, including the recent Mindanao earthquake.