No congratulations from Alan Cayetano yet, says Gatchalian

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said he has yet to personally hear from Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano following his assumption of the chamber’s leadership.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian (Mark Balmores)

In a radio interview on DZMM, Gatchalian emphasized that his “door is open” to all colleagues as he seeks unity in the Senate.

He said he has already received messages of support and congratulations from “almost all” members of the Senate, including several from the minority bloc.

“Iyong iba nagte-text sa akin, nag-congratulate…marami na mga members ng minority na nag-text o nagpapadala ng congratulatory message (There were those who texted him, congratulated me…a lot from the minority texted and sent congratulatory messages),” Gatchalian said.

He added that what matters most is for the Senate to move forward as a unified institution.

Asked specifically if Cayetano had extended congratulations, Gatchalian said: “Particularly kay Sen. Alan wala pa (Particularly from Sen. Alan, there’s none).”

Pressed on whether he would reach out to Cayetano, the Senate President said he is open to dialogue with all senators.

“Sabi ko nga, lahat naman ang aking pintuan, ang aking puso, laging bukas (As I’ve said, all my doors, my heart, are always open),” he said.

Gatchalian said he has no difficulty communicating with members of the minority bloc, noting that he considers many of them his colleagues and friends.

He added that having previously worked with most senators makes it easier for him to engage with all sides, stressing that many of them are “capable, serious about their work, and simply want to work.” — Dhel Nazario