The Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) expressed opposition to the Senate majority bloc’s attempt to railroad an amendment to the chamber’s rules that would allow senators to vote remotely.

FINEX, whose members include some of the country’s top financial executives, said the Senate must affirm its strict adherence to its own rules, due process, and orderly deliberation in all forms of legislative proceedings.

The group said this is especially important in matters “involving changes to institutional rules and procedures.”

“At a time when public trust in institutions is critical, the Senate must continue to demonstrate credibility, impartiality, transparency, and respect for established processes,” FINEX said.

“These principles strengthen public confidence and uphold the integrity of democratic institutions,” it added.

FINEX issued the statement on Wednesday, May 27, a day after another turbulent episode in the Senate, as the 11-member minority bloc walked out of the upper chamber’s plenary hall in protest of the majority’s attempt to rush a crucial amendment to Senate rules.

The majority, led by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, moved to put the amendment to a vote even before committee deliberations on the matter took place.

The proposed change in Senate rules would allow senators to attend and vote during legislative sessions through remote means.

Members of the minority bloc alleged that the move to railroad the process coincided with the Ombudsman’s announcement that at least two majority senators are set to face plunder charges soon.

The proposal is also seen to benefit Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who has gone back into hiding to evade arrest.

Echoing the minority bloc’s concerns, FINEX said any proposal to institutionalize remote voting should “undergo careful study, broad consultation, and clear safeguards to ensure that public trust, institutional integrity, and the quality of deliberation are preserved.”

The business group, however, stressed that physical presence and direct participation should remain required in Senate proceedings to uphold accountability and transparency.

“The Senate plays a critical constitutional role that benefits from in-person debate, active engagement, and visible participation by its members,” FINEX said.

FINEX also reminded senators that following their own rules is necessary to maintain public trust in the institution, especially after weeks of political turmoil that drew international attention.

“Maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions remains vital to economic stability, investor confidence, and national progress,” it said.