In the Senate building in Pasay City, 23 of the 24 lawmakers were in the plenary hall. Sen. Pia Cayetano was the only one who didn’t show up. (Photo from Office of Sen. Sonny Angara)
MANILA, Philippines — The Senate opened the second regular session for the 19th Congress on Monday morning – a few hours ahead of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (Sona).
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri banged the gavel a few minutes past 10 a.m. marking the official reopening of the session.
In the Senate building in Pasay City, 23 of the 24 lawmakers were in the plenary hall at the same time. Only Senator Pia Cayetano was a no-show since she is currently in New Zealand, leading the Philippine delegation at the ongoing Fifa Women’s World Cup
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Congress has met for numerous sessions under a public health emergency – until Monday following Marcos’ lifting of the status last Saturday.
READ: Marcos declares COVID health emergency over
Marcos-allied Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri will reprise his chamber chief role.
After the session, senators will proceed to the Batasang Complex in Quezon City for a joint session with the House of Representatives to hear Marcos’ address.