Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson dismissed Sen. Imee Marcos’s claims as “flat, outright lies” that senators were plotting to take over the Senate leadership to push constitutional amendments on Friday, May 22.
Sen. Marcos alleged that a reorganization in the Senate was being planned to pave the way for charter change.
This included proposals that could allegedly extend the terms of top government officials and change the age requirements for presidential and vice presidential candidates from 40 to 50, supposedly to disqualify Vice President Sara Duterte.
“We meet frequently but never talk about it," Lacson said in his defense.
He also said that he did not know where such statements were coming from, adding that those making the claims should present solid evidence to support them.
Sen. Lacson said the Senate minority bloc, known as the “Mythical 11,” never discussed any proposal related to a constitutional assembly or term extensions during its caucuses.
He added that the minority bloc remains focused on restoring the Senate’s credibility and public image.
“We love the Senate. All of us are united on this — we must resurrect the Senate’s image,” he said. “Forget all other issues regarding leadership changes for now — our primordial concern is the integrity of the Senate.”
Sen. Lacson also denied earlier allegations by Sen. Marcos that some minority senators were warned ahead of a major incident on May 13 and left the Senate early because of it.
Along with Senators Erwin Tulfo and Risa Hontiveros, Sen. Lacson said they left because the session had already adjourned, and an expected all-senators caucus was later limited to majority members only.
In a separate interview, Sen. Marcos also claimed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. allegedly ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to arrest Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa “at all costs,” even if it would result in casualties.
Written by Shein Ann Saño, Insight PH
Shein Ann Saño, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
