Veterans Bloc Sparks Senate Minority Shift
MANILA, Philippines — The veterans bloc is poised to bring an exciting and healthy shift in the Senate’s minority leadership in the 20th Congress. Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito shared his belief that veteran lawmakers forming this group—Senators Tito Sotto, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Ping Lacson, and Loren Legarda—could energize the minority bloc if they take up its leadership.
Ejercito highlighted that the veterans bloc, while primarily aligned with the administration, would only oppose the Senate leadership. He sees this as an opportunity for a more dynamic minority presence, which is crucial for the legislative process.
Dynamic Minority for Better Debate
During the recent Kapihan sa Senado forum, Ejercito expressed his hope to witness an active minority bloc. “That will be exciting because most of them won as part of Alyansa and they are also aligned with the administration. So they are only against the Senate leadership. I think it will be healthy, especially if the administration has priority measures,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
He added, “We would want an active minority. As I have mentioned earlier, the best ideas and solutions are borne out of intelligent debates. It’s better if the minority becomes active in order for our discussions to be fruitful and we can enhance, improve, refine, any measure that will be taken up on the floor.” Ejercito’s remarks underline the importance of the veterans bloc in shaping a constructive opposition.
Senate Presidency and Minority Bloc Plans
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri revealed that Senator Tito Sotto will be the veterans bloc’s candidate for Senate president when the 20th Congress opens on July 28. However, if Sotto does not secure the presidency, the bloc plans to form the minority leadership.
Reports suggest several contenders are vying for the Senate presidency, including Senators Grace Poe and Imee Marcos alongside Sotto.
The Duterte bloc, which includes Senators Bato dela Rosa and Bong Go, confirmed that both Escudero and Sotto have sought their support for the leadership race.
Sotto’s Possible Minority Leadership
Earlier statements from Sotto indicated his willingness to serve as Senate Minority Leader should he fail to gain majority support for the presidency. This move could further solidify the veterans bloc’s role in the minority, ensuring a balanced and vigorous Senate.
Veterans Bloc and Senate Dynamics
Senator Lito Lapid is also reportedly part of the veterans bloc, although Zubiri noted that Lapid remains free to join the majority if he chooses. This illustrates the fluidity within Senate alliances and the evolving nature of the veterans bloc’s influence.
Sources noted that the veterans bloc’s potential to lead the minority could promote more robust debates and legislative scrutiny, benefiting the overall governance process.
For more news and updates on Senate minority leadership, visit Filipinokami.com.