Senate delays divorce, death penalty bills

The Senate will not prioritize the divorce and death penalty bills during its third regular session of the 19th Congress, according to Senate President Francis Escudero.

Escudero noted at a press briefing on Monday that while these bills are not controversial, they will undergo the standard legislative process without being expedited.

The House of Representatives had already approved the divorce bill before adjourning its second regular session in May, with 131 lawmakers voting in favor.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada's survey indicates a close divide among senators regarding the divorce bill.

Escudero also announced that charter change (cha-cha) proposals will not be prioritized to allow focus on more important measures that genuinely enhance Filipinos' lives.