Gatchalian says Mark Villar joined Senate majority to help ensure stability

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 10, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Senate of the President/ Facebook

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said Senator Mark Villar’s decision to join the Senate majority bloc was intended to help maintain stability in the chamber, amid questions about the political implications of the shift.

Villar moved from the minority to the majority bloc on October 8, when he was elected chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Works and became a member of the Commission on Appointments.

Gatchalian’s remarks came as Villar’s transfer drew attention because of its potential implications for the Senate’s handling of key legislative matters, including the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Villar had previously voted with the minority on a motion related to the required number of votes for Duterte’s conviction. His move brings the majority bloc to 14 members, while the minority has 10.

However, the change in membership does not necessarily mean senators will vote as a bloc on impeachment proceedings, with individual members expected to make their decisions based on their assessment of the evidence.

The development has also prompted questions about whether the Marcos administration influenced Villar’s decision. Malacañang has denied involvement, maintaining that senators make their own decisions and that a larger majority does not guarantee a unified vote.

Villar’s shift reshapes the Senate’s political alignment as lawmakers continue deliberations on legislation and the impeachment proceedings involving the vice president.