Here it is the Senate of the Philippines. It stands as a testament to the nation’s democratic ideals. Senators shape the course of Filipino history within these walls.
The Senate of the Philippines is the upper house of Congress. The House of Representatives forms the lower house. It is composed of 24 senators elected at-large. This means the entire country serves as one district. Senators here serve six-year terms. They can serve a maximum of two consecutive terms. Elections are staggered. Half of the Senate is elected every three years.
The Senate has its roots in the Philippine Commission. This was under the Insular Government. From 1907 to 1916, the Philippine Commission served as the upper chamber. The Philippine Assembly was the elected lower house.
The Philippine Autonomy Act created an elected bicameral legislature in 1916. It is also known as the Jones Law. The Senate became the upper chamber. The House of Representatives became the lower chamber. Senators were elected via senatorial districts. Each district grouped several provinces.
Manuel L. Quezon served as Senate President for 19 years. This was from 1916 to 1935. In 1935, the Senate was abolished. A unicameral National Assembly was established. The Senate was restored in 1940 through an amendment.
The Senate convened in 1945. It served as the upper chamber until martial law in 1972. President Ferdinand Marcos shut down Congress. The Senate was resurrected in 1987. This was upon the ratification of the 1987 Constitution.
The Senate President is the presiding officer. They are the highest-ranking official. The entire body elects them. The Senate President is second in the presidential line of succession. Francis Escudero is the current officeholder.
The Senate is smaller than the House of Representatives. Senators are elected at large. This aims to make the Senate a training ground for national leaders. It can be a springboard for the presidency. Senators have a broader outlook on national problems. They are not restricted by narrow viewpoints.
The Senate Electoral Tribunal or SET handles election protests. It is composed of three Supreme Court justices and six senators. The SET has replaced senators three times due to election protests.
To be a senator one must be a natural-born citizen. They must be at least 35 years old on election day. Senators must be able to read and write. They must be registered voters. They must be a resident of the Philippines for at least two years.
The Senate was modeled after the United States Senate. Both chambers have roughly equal powers. Every bill needs the consent of both chambers. The Senate can approve or denounce treaties. It can try impeachment cases. A two-thirds supermajority is required.
Currently, the Senate meets at the GSIS Building in Pasay. It shares the complex with the Government Service Insurance System. The Senate previously met at the Old Legislative Building in Manila. It is planned that the Senate will move to a new building in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. It may happen by 2025.
The Founding Anniversary of the Senate is celebrated on August 29. It marks the formation of the Philippine Senate. It also celebrates the nation’s independence. The Jones Law established the Senate on August 29, 1916.
As you leave the Senate of the Philippines remember its rich history. Think of the leaders who have shaped this nation. Reflect on the ongoing pursuit of democracy and progress. The Senate stands as a symbol. It embodies the hopes and aspirations of the Filipino people.