09/06/2026
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The Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE) stands in full solidarity with the Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Organisasyon (SENADO) and all Senate employees who continue to perform their duties amid the uncertainty arising from the ongoing leadership conflict within the institution. Their continued service reflects a commitment not only to their work but also to the Filipino people who depend on effective and stable public institutions.
We commend S.E.N.A.D.O. for defending the welfare and rights of Senate employees during this difficult period. Its actions underscore the vital role of unions in ensuring that workers' voices are heard and that their rights and interests are protected, especially in times of institutional instability.
Yet the challenges facing Senate employees extend beyond the current leadership dispute. Like millions of Filipinos, they contend daily with rising prices, inadequate wages, increasing living costs, and concerns over job security. They are not merely employees of the Senate; they are citizens, taxpayers, and members of communities who also bear the burden of the country's economic and political crises.
As fellow Filipinos, Senate employees share the people's demand for accountability in government. They, too, aspire for public institutions that uphold integrity, transparency, and the rule of law. Those who misuse public office, betray the public trust, or engage in corruption must be held fully accountable and subjected to the appropriate legal and administrative sanctions. Public office must always remain a public trust.
The Senate is a pillar of democratic governance. Its leaders, as elected public servants, must rise above factional interests and ensure that political disagreements do not undermine institutions or jeopardize the welfare of employees. We likewise acknowledge those Senators who reached out to Senate employees and S.E.N.A.D.O. and affirmed that workers' welfare must remain a priority amid these developments.
COURAGE calls on Senate leaders and concerned authorities to:
β’ Respect, recognize, and protect the rights and welfare of Senate employees;
β’ Ensure that political disputes and leadership conflicts do not compromise workplace stability, security, and safety;
β’ Uphold the dignity of public service by treating workers as partners in democratic governance, not as collateral damage in political contests;
β’ Hold accountable those responsible for corruption, abuse of authority, and violations of the public trust; and
β’ Guarantee that employees' livelihoods, benefits, and working conditions remain protected regardless of political developments.
Laslty, COURAGE salutes S.E.N.A.D.O. and all Senate employees for their unity and steadfastness during these challenging times. Their example reminds us that when workers are organized and their rights are protected, democratic institutions are strengthened and public service is better able to serve the people. # # #
