By CESAR JOLITO III

Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante has expressed concern over the ongoing crisis in the Senate, urging lawmakers to put aside political disputes and return their focus to serving the Filipino people.

Speaking in his personal capacity, Escalante said the Negros Association of Chief Executives has not formally discussed the issue, but he lamented what he described as the declining state of the country’s legislative institution.

He compared the current Senate with previous generations of senators, citing leaders such as former Senators Miriam Defensor Santiago and Franklin Drilon, whom he said championed policies that directly benefited the public.

Escalante linked the present instability in the Senate to political tensions surrounding the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte and what he characterized as growing partisan divisions within the chamber.

Escalante also challenged voters to become more discerning in future elections, stressing that integrity should outweigh popularity, charisma or public speaking ability when choosing candidates.

He noted that the composition of the Senate ultimately reflects the choices made by the electorate.

Calling on senators to rise above political maneuvering, Escalante said the Senate must uphold its role as a key democratic institution and focus on addressing the needs of the nation.

He emphasized that the chamber should serve as a venue for meaningful legislation and governance rather than prolonged political infighting./CCJ, WDJ