By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Senate minority bloc has rejected attempts to revive a possible Senate presidency comeback for Sen. Francis Escudero, with Sen. Francis Pangilinan saying the group remains firmly united behind Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.
Speaking in an ANC interview, Pangilinan disclosed that some intermediaries floated the idea of supporting Escudero’s return to the Senate leadership, but members of the minority bloc quickly rejected the proposal.
“Hindi na pinalaki pa dahil solid yung 11 na di acceptable yung proposition na yun,” Pangilinan said.
He stressed that the “Solid Bloc-11” continues to work toward installing Gatchalian as Senate president, with several senators quietly conducting backchannel discussions aimed at building a new majority coalition.
Pangilinan said he is not personally involved in the negotiations but confirmed that talks are ongoing.
He added that the bloc hopes the leadership issue can be settled soon so senators can refocus on legislative priorities.
The senator also pointed to increasing public criticism against the Senate leadership, saying lawmakers are aware of growing calls for accountability.
“Senators are sensitive to public opinion,” Pangilinan noted.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros likewise reiterated her support for Gatchalian, describing him as a hardworking and disciplined legislator who values the Senate’s integrity.
According to Hontiveros, the minority bloc remains intact at 11 members and is determined to rebuild public trust in the Senate following recent controversies tied to the leadership reshuffle, the shooting incident, and the alleged escape of Sen. Ronald dela Rosa.
She said senators are expected to soon tackle major responsibilities, including the national budget deliberations and preparations for the impeachment trial.
Meanwhile, Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano insisted that the majority coalition remains intact.
“Buo ang 13, sa 13 walang onsehan,” Cayetano told reporters.
Sen. Imee Marcos also maintained that the majority bloc continues to stand as a “solid 13.”
ia/xf
