Senate of the Philippines

The Senate of the Philippines is the upper chamber of the bicameral Congress of the Philippines. It is composed of 24 senators who are elected at large for a term of six years. The Senate has the power to confirm or reject presidential appointments, declare war, and ratify treaties. It also has the power to impeach the president, vice president, and other high-ranking officials.

The Senate was created by the Malolos Constitution of 1899, which established the First Philippine Republic. The Senate was originally composed of 20 members, who were elected by the Malolos Congress. The Senate was abolished by the American colonial government in 1901, but it was re-established by the Philippine Independence Act of 1934. The Senate was again abolished by the Japanese occupation government in 1942, but it was re-established after the war in 1946.

The Senate has a number of important powers and responsibilities. These include:

• Confirming or rejecting presidential appointments
• Declaring war
• Ratifying treaties
• Impeaching the president, vice president, and other high-ranking officials
• Approving the national budget
• Passing laws
• Investigating government agencies and officials

The Senate is composed of 24 senators who are elected at large for a term of six years. The senators are elected on a staggered basis, with half of the Senate up for election every three years. The current Senate is composed of 12 members of the majority party and 12 members of the minority party.

The Senate is led by the Senate President, who is elected by the senators from among their members. The Senate President is responsible for presiding over Senate sessions and representing the Senate in official functions.

The Senate is divided into a number of committees that are responsible for studying and reporting on bills. The committees are chaired by senators who are appointed by the Senate President.

The Senate meets in regular sessions from January to June and from July to December. The Senate may also meet in special sessions at the call of the President or the Senate President.

The Senate is a powerful institution that plays a vital role in the Philippine political system. The Senate is responsible for passing laws, confirming or rejecting presidential appointments, and investigating government agencies and officials. The Senate is also a forum for public debate on important issues.