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Cayetano, Lacson clash over anti-corruption efforts in Senate

Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano has challenged Sen. Panfilo Lacson's claims about his anti-corruption campaign, with the two lawmakers engaging in a fresh public dispute over their respective records on graft-fighting.

LSN Philippines · 15 September 2026

MANILA—The rivalry between Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Sen. Panfilo Lacson escalated on Tuesday as the two engaged in a new round of public sparring, this time centering on anti-corruption initiatives.

Cayetano took to social media to rebut Lacson's assertion that his campaign against corruption must be effective, arguing that intimidating corrupt officials serves as proof of positive action for the country. In his Facebook post, Cayetano expressed skepticism over Lacson's characterization of his anti-corruption work.

The exchange marks another instance of friction between the two senators, who have previously clashed on various legislative matters. Both have positioned themselves as advocates for transparency and accountability in government, yet their competing claims about who bears greater responsibility for anti-corruption efforts highlight divisions within the Senate chamber.

The dispute comes amid ongoing scrutiny of governance and ethics in the Philippine government, with various lawmakers promoting their respective anti-corruption agendas ahead of upcoming legislative priorities.