Marcos calls for Congress special session

[Updated June 15, 2026, 12:40 p.m.]

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for Congress to convene a special session on June 17 to fast-track social protection measures amid energy challenges and calamities.

Under Proclamation No. 1318 signed on Monday, the President directed Congress to take up priority legislative measures that remain pending despite having reached advanced stages of legislation.

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READ: Drilon to Marcos: Call special session now

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Among the bills targeted for consideration are:

National Center for Geriatric Health;

Amendments to the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education Act;

Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations Act;

Amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act;

Last Mile and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged and Conflict-Affected Areas Schools Act;

Amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act;

Anti-Political Dynasty Law;

Presidential Merit Scholarship Program; and

Such other measures aimed towards strengthening social protection and uplifting the lives of the Filipino people

Moreover, the special session will also allow the Commission on Appointments to act on pending appointments to key positions in the Cabinet, military, and foreign service to ensure continuity across government institutions.

“The challenges confronting our people demand urgent action. Families affected by the recent earthquake in Mindanao require immediate assistance. Students need continued support to pursue their education. Our senior citizens deserve better healthcare. Our children must have better nutrition and vulnerable sectors need stronger protection,” Marcos said in the proclamation.

“The needs of the Filipino people do not pause when Congress is not in session. The government must continue to respond, and the welfare of every Filipino must remain our highest priority,” he also said.

Under Section 15, Article VI of the 1987 Constitution, the President has sole authority to call Congress into special session at any time to address urgent matters requiring immediate legislative action. /mr

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