By Samantha Yu
MANILA — Leaders of both chambers of Congress have expressed support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to convene a special session on June 17, assuring readiness to take up a slate of priority measures focused on social services, education, healthcare, and public welfare.
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy said the House of Representatives is prepared to immediately resume legislative work during the special session, noting that key measures identified by the President under Proclamation No. 1318 have already been acted upon by the chamber.
Dy said the House views the special session as an opportunity to fast-track policies aimed at strengthening social protection programs and improving access to basic services for Filipinos.
The priority legislative agenda includes proposals such as the creation of a National Center for Geriatric Health, enhancements to the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE), institutionalization of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, and reforms to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.
Other measures on the list include initiatives for last-mile and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, revisions to the national school feeding program, the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, and the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program.
In the Senate, Majority Leader Migz Zubiri and Sen. Erwin Tulfo both welcomed the President’s move, saying lawmakers are prepared to address urgent national concerns once the chamber reconvenes.
The senators said the agenda centers on pressing issues such as healthcare access, education funding, and government assistance for individuals and families in crisis situations.
They also underscored the importance of the Commission on Appointments’ role during the special session, particularly in reviewing executive, military, and diplomatic appointments to ensure competent leadership in key government positions.
Both lawmakers urged their colleagues to prioritize work over political divisions, stressing the need for swift and focused action on pending legislative measures.
“Walang drama, walang delay, walang dahilan para hindi magtrabaho,” they said, emphasizing the expectation that senators should act decisively in the public interest.
Congress is currently on recess and is set to resume its regular session on July 26, 2026. The upcoming special session will allow lawmakers to tackle priority bills ahead of the formal reopening of legislative work.
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