President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called Congress to a special session on June 17 to fast-track a package of priority measures and allow the Commission on Appointments (CA) to act on pending nominations to key government posts.
Under Proclamation No. 1318 signed on June 15, Marcos directed lawmakers to convene and urgently deliberate on several administration-backed bills covering healthcare, education, social protection, nutrition, and governance.
The move comes amid a legislative bottleneck in the Senate and reflects Malacañang’s effort to keep momentum on reforms that could otherwise face delays until the regular session resumes.
Among the measures lined up for consideration are bills establishing a National Center for Geriatric Health, amending the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) Act, institutionalizing the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, and revising the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.
Lawmakers will also tackle the proposed Last Mile and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged and Conflict-Affected Areas (GIDA) Schools Act, amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, and the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Law.
Marcos said the special session was necessary to ensure the prompt passage of measures aimed at strengthening social protection and improving the lives of Filipinos.
The breadth of the legislative agenda highlights the administration’s focus on converting existing social programs into permanent government policy. Several of the proposed measures seek to institutionalize assistance programs and expand access to healthcare, education, nutrition, and student support, particularly for underserved communities.
The inclusion of the Anti-Political Dynasty Law is particularly notable. While the 1987 Constitution mandates the prohibition of political dynasties as may be defined by law, Congress has yet to pass enabling legislation nearly four decades later. Its appearance on the administration’s priority list could revive debate on one of Philippine politics’ most contentious reform proposals.
Marcos also ordered the special session to enable the Commission on Appointments to convene and act on pending appointments to the Cabinet, military, and foreign service.
Beyond advancing legislation, the special session is expected to test the administration’s ability to build consensus in Congress as it seeks to move a broad reform agenda while ensuring key government posts are filled without further delay.
