Philippines Senate names Sherwin Gatchalian acting president after vacancy

Former Senate President Franklin Drilon said the Senate session held with 12 members was valid and constituted a quorum, allowing the chamber to declare all leadership positions vacant. He explained that under Senate rules and past Supreme Court rulings, a quorum of fewer than 13 senators can perform such acts, though electing a permanent Senate president requires an absolute majority of 13 votes.

Drilon defended the appointment of Sherwin Gatchalian as Senate President Pro‑Tempore, which made him acting Senate president after the vacancy. He noted the move was necessary to keep the Senate functioning, including preparations for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The opposing bloc, led by former Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, called the action an illegal coup and maintains that the leadership change lacks legitimacy. Drilon said the dispute will ultimately be resolved by the courts.