Senators Prepare to Join Minority Bloc if Senate Presidency Bid Falters
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has announced that he and Senator-elect Vicente “Tito” Sotto III are ready to become part of the minority bloc should Sotto fail to secure the Senate presidency in the upcoming 20th Congress. The senators are prepared to shift to the minority side if Sotto does not win the leadership post, according to sources familiar with the matter.
During an interview on a local radio program, Lacson explained, “Automatic ’yun (That’s automatic),” confirming that their alignment with the minority would be a natural consequence of Sotto’s defeat. In that case, Lacson said he would support Sotto as minority leader out of respect for his leadership. “Parang out of deference naman sa kaniyang pagiging leader, siya na rin yung pipiliin kong maging minority leader (Out of deference to his leadership, I would also choose him to be the minority leader),” he added.
Commitment to Legislative Duties Despite Leadership Uncertainty
Even though the Senate leadership remains uncertain, Lacson emphasized his dedication to fulfilling his legislative responsibilities. He highlighted his focus on key tasks such as budget scrutiny, interpellation, and active participation in Senate oversight activities. These duties, he noted, will continue regardless of which group he joins.
Lacson has already voiced his support for Sotto’s bid for the Senate presidency, reflecting on Sotto’s extensive experience and leadership during his previous term as Senate President under the Duterte administration. “For me, it is clear. He is my friend and colleague whose leadership I have experienced. So I think I can reveal and I can be very frank that I will vote for Sen. Sotto,” Lacson stated in a televised interview.
Potential Contenders for Senate Leadership
Aside from Sotto, incumbent Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero is also seen as a strong candidate. Both senators are respected members of the Nacionalist People’s Coalition (NPC). Additionally, Senator Imee Marcos has been mentioned as another possible contender for the Senate’s top position in the next Congress.
At 76 years old, Sotto has expressed his willingness to lead the Senate once more if he gains the necessary support from his colleagues. However, he has made it clear that he will not actively campaign for votes, preferring to let his record and reputation speak for themselves.
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