Photo credit: Senate PH

Senate President Francis "Chiz" G. Escudero dropped a bombshell on Monday, declaring that Charter change (Cha-cha) will take a backseat in the final stretch of the 19th Congress. Instead, he's all in on pushing through legislation that directly benefits everyday Filipinos.

Speaking at the Senate's comeback session, Escudero stressed the need to ditch divisive measures in favor of practical laws that actually matter to the public. "In this final regular session of the 19th Congress, following Quezon's advice, we will set aside items which merely dissipate our energy and divide the public, "Escudero remarked, nodding to the late President Manuel L. Quezon, the country's inaugural Senate President.

He assured everyone that Cha-cha won't disappear entirely but will face the usual legislative hoops. "In its stead, bills which can effect the same result-- but without the needless political noise and bickering -- will be prioritized. This will allow us to focus our energy on measures which the people truly need," he quipped.

Escudero highlighted the Senate's commitment to working hand in hand with the executive branch and the House of Representatives on a shared agenda. "legislation is not a one-way process." he asserted.

To streamline their priorities, Escudero introduced a straightforward litmus test for bills: "Will it make the lives of our people easier? Will it help us move faster? Will it make our people's burdens lighter?"

"This applies as well in deciding whether we need to legislate in the first place," he added decisively.

In essence, Escudero's approach signals a pivot towards actionable legislation that resonates with the everyday concerns of Filipinos, setting the stage for a productive finale to the 19th Congress.

"For the Senate does not only propose new laws, it also disposes with needless or obsolete ones."