Netizens Slam Senate’s Legacy Wall
WASTE OF FUNDS? – The newly unveiled “Legacy Wall” of the Philippine Senate has sparked mixed reactions online.
The wall, which features photos of all 24 senators of the 20th Congress, was showcased on Facebook on July 21, 2025, by Senate President Chiz Escudero, just days before the opening of the new Congress on July 28.
According to the Senate’s post, the Legacy Wall was created to highlight both new and returning senators as part of the institution’s ongoing history. However, many netizens did not share the same level of enthusiasm. Several questioned the wall’s purpose and the budget allocated for the project. Some directly asked how much was spent on creating it, while others criticized the display as unnecessary—especially considering the current problems facing the country, such as severe flooding.
Many online comments expressed frustration. Some users felt that showcasing the senators’ portraits was unnecessary and described it as a waste of public funds. Others said the wall seemed more like self-promotion than public service. A few sarcastic comments even questioned what kind of “legacy” was being celebrated.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Senate is the upper house of Congress, which serves as the country’s main lawmaking body. It works together with the House of Representatives to create, review, and approve laws. The Senate is made up of 24 senators, elected by people from all over the country. Their main focus is on national issues and policies, helping to balance the decisions made by the lower house. Senators serve for six years and can be re-elected, but only for two straight terms.
Aside from making laws, the Senate also approves the national budget, reviews and agrees to international treaties, and holds investigations on important issues affecting the public. It also serves as the impeachment court when top government officials, like the president or the chief justice, are on trial. In simple terms, the Senate plays a big role in shaping the country’s laws and making sure the government is working properly for its people.