Senate Bloc Decisions Spark Debate
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan remains firm amid criticisms surrounding his possible shift in the Senate. The key phrase senate bloc decisions reflects the core of the ongoing discussions as he navigates political alliances.
Facing allegations that he might be “selling out to the enemy,” Pangilinan dismissed the accusations. “They are free to say what they wish,” he stated on his social media platforms Thursday. He confidently affirmed, “I know who I am, I know what I stand for. My political track record is an open book.”
Possible Alliance with Majority Bloc
Although closely linked with opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros, sources revealed Pangilinan may join the new majority bloc in the Senate. Reports indicated that Senators Pangilinan and Bam Aquino signed a resolution backing Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s leadership, local leaders noted.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada confirmed that chairmanship offers for the agriculture and education committees were extended to Pangilinan and Aquino, respectively. However, Pangilinan has not confirmed these offers, explaining that discussions with Hontiveros and Aquino are ongoing.
He emphasized unity in their shared goals: “Whatever the official and final decision of the Senate on July 28 may be, we will still stand firmly to eradicate hunger, for the farmers and fishermen, and for affordable prices of rice and food. And I know that in the fight against hunger, the three of us are united.”
Commitment to Longstanding Causes
Pangilinan reiterated his dedication to tackling hunger, corruption, and poverty, causes he has pursued since his student days. “I will not abandon the fight I began in the ’80s,” he declared.
Meanwhile, Hontiveros is considering forming or joining an independent bloc, which she described as “more realistic” given the current Senate dynamics. She and former Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III were the sole opposition senators in the previous Congress, local officials observed.
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