Photo credit: Senate PH

The Philippine Senate wrapped up its session on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, with a bang—approving several key bills before heading into a long recess in preparation for the May 12 midterm elections.

Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero gave the final gavel strike, officially marking the start of the break. But before calling it a day, senators managed to pass important measures, including the Konektadong Pinoy Act (Senate Bill No. 2699) on its third and final reading. They also ratified reports on the New Development Bank of the Philippines, the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act, and the revised charter of Don Honorio Ventura State University in Pampanga.

Additionally, the chamber moved forward on bills concerning government rightsizing, judicial fiscal autonomy, amendments to Bacoor City’s charter, and revisions to the Animal Welfare Act, all of which passed on second reading.

What They Didn't Touch: The VP Duterte Impeachment Complaints

One thing the Senate didn’t get to? The impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. formally received the documents from House of Representatives Secretary General Reginald Velasco, but the upper chamber left them untouched before adjourning.

Congress still has two more working days—until February 8—before going on an extended break until June 1. With election season in full swing, it remains to be seen how much more lawmakers can squeeze in before shifting their focus to the campaign trail.