Senate Attendance Report Shows Bato dela Rosa With Most Absences
BATO DELA ROSA – The senator recorded the highest number of absences in the Senate during the first regular session of the 20th Congress, according to official attendance records.
He was absent for 31 out of 58 session days from July 28, 2025, to March 18, 2026, meaning he missed more than half of the scheduled sessions. His absences began in November 2025 following reports that the International Criminal Court had issued an arrest order against him in connection with his role in the war on drugs under former President Rodrigo Duterte. This situation attracted public attention and raised concerns about his ability to fulfill his duties consistently.
Following him, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano ranked second with 14 absences and 24 instances of tardiness. Records also indicate that he had the highest number of absences during the 19th Congress, attending only 36 out of 54 session days, reflecting a pattern of irregular attendance. Meanwhile, newly elected Senator Camille Villar recorded 16 absences, which were due to her maternity leave—a valid and understandable reason that distinguishes her case from others.
Several senators demonstrated strong commitment by maintaining perfect attendance. These include Senate President Tito Sotto, Senate Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri, and Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Jinggoy Estrada, Robin Padilla, Imee Marcos, Joel Villanueva, Bam Aquino, Bong Go, Rodante Marcoleta, and Risa Hontiveros, showing consistent participation in legislative work.
A few senators had only minimal absences. Senators Kiko Pangilinan, Erwin Tulfo, and Chiz Escudero each recorded one absence. Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, along with Loren Legarda and Lito Lapid, had two absences each. In overall attendance, Pia Cayetano attended 55 sessions, Mark Villar attended 53, while JV Ejercito and Raffy Tulfo were each present for 52 days.
Related Post: Bato dela Rosa Faces Ethics Complaint Over Long Senate Absences