SPECIAL SESSION Aside from resolving the Senate leadership question, Wednesday’s special session of Congress also convened the Commission on Appointments to finally confirm the promotion or designation of five military generals and 85 ambassadors. One of the confirmed generals is shown here being congratulated by newly elected Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian. —NIÑO JESUS ORBETA
MANILA, Philippines — The monthlong leadership crisis in the Senate ended on Wednesday after Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian secured the votes needed to be formally elected Senate President during a special session of Congress.
This development significantly undercuts a pending Supreme Court challenge questioning the legitimacy of the chamber’s reorganization and raises the likelihood that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte will proceed without institutional uncertainty.
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Gatchalian’s election became possible after Sen. Joel Villanueva left the minority bloc and joined senators backing a leadership change, providing the crucial 13th vote required under the Constitution to elect a Senate President.FEATURED STORIES
