MANILA, Philippines — Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla has disputed claims that he blocked senators and resource persons from entering the Senate, saying he was the one who was pushed during a tense exchange at the Senate on Thursday morning.
The incident occurred as a group of former Marines arrived to attend a hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. Senators Pia Cayetano and Robin Padilla reportedly went to the ground floor to accompany the resource persons into the building, leading to a brief confrontation that drew public attention.
Speaking on the matter, Remulla denied allegations that he attempted to prevent anyone from entering the Senate. Instead, he claimed that he was suddenly shoved while passing through the area.
The DILG chief said available evidence, including CCTV footage, would help establish the facts surrounding the incident and clarify the sequence of events.
Videos and varying accounts of the confrontation quickly circulated online, prompting discussions among lawmakers, supporters, and netizens regarding what transpired.
As of this writing, no official findings have been released, and concerned parties are expected to review available footage and testimonies as part of efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The confrontation has added another layer of tension to ongoing Senate proceedings, with observers awaiting further clarification from those involved.
Source: Statements from DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla and reports on the Senate incident on June 5, 2026.
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