The Philippine Congress convened in a special session on June 17, 2026, called by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., where Senator Sherwin Gatchalian was formally elected as the new Senate President, resolving a two-week leadership crisis.

????️ Senate Leadership Change

The special session, which began at 9 a.m. for the Senate and 3 p.m. for the House, marked a significant political shift. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian was elected Senate President, settling the leadership row with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano. Senator Vicente "Tito" Sotto III was elected as Senate President Pro Tempore, while Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri retained his position as Majority Leader.

???? New Committee Assignments

Senate Majority Leader Zubiri moved for the election of committee chairpersons, resulting in major appointments:

• Senator Bam Aquino - Committees on Basic Education, Trade Commerce and Entrepreneurship, Science and Technology
• Senator JV Ejercito - Committees on Finance and Local Government
• Senator Risa Hontiveros - Committees on Health and Demography, Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality
• Senator Ping Lacson - Committee on Ways and Means
• Senator Erwin Tulfo - Blue Ribbon Committee, Social Justice, Energy
• Senator Francis Pangilinan - Constitutional Amendments, Agriculture, Justice and Human Rights

Security Measures

The Philippine National Police deployed over 300 personnel around the Senate, with PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. urging calm and respect for the rule of law amid the political tensions.

???? Presidential Agenda

President Marcos called the special session under Proclamation 1318 to urgently consider eight priority measures and enable the Commission on Appointments to confirm eight Cabinet members, five generals, and diplomatic appointees.