Cayetano Siblings Depart Philippines Amidst No Travel Ban

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed on Thursday that Senators Alan Peter S. Cayetano and Pilar Juliana S. Cayetano left the country. Reports indicated the siblings were spotted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on September 9. "Based on BI records, there were no hold departure orders or derogatory records against the two senators, as of departure date, that would legally prevent them from leaving the country," the BI stated. The agency declined to disclose specific travel details, citing the Data Privacy Act of 2012. Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente C. Sotto III separately told reporters that senators are not compelled to seek permission from the chamber for personal trips when leaving the country. Senator Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson, who has been investigating infrastructure and reclamation projects in the Cayetanos’ bailiwick of Taguig City, commented that their departure is "not an issue as of the moment." He added, "Let’s make them take a break from the stress caused by issues that he himself created." Lacson also expressed well wishes for Senator Cayetano's health, despite their animosities. Lacson further stated it is not an issue since no subpoena has been issued by the Office of the Ombudsman yet. The Cayetano siblings are prominent political figures, particularly influential in Taguig City's infrastructure development and politics. The impact of their departure on the domestic political landscape and ongoing projects remains to be seen.