Speculation is mounting over the possible shift of Senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino from the minority to the Senate majority bloc ahead of the 20th Congress, which convenes on July 28.
In an interview with DWIZ, Senator Jinggoy Estrada said it’s “possible” that both Aquino and Pangilinan have already thrown their support behind Senate President Chiz Escudero’s re-election bid.
“Yes, I think so,” Estrada briefly responded when asked if the two senators might join the majority bloc.
So far, Aquino and Pangilinan have not issued any statement regarding their political alignment.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, the current lone opposition member in the Senate, said she will wait for her colleagues’ confirmation before commenting.
Estrada also expressed confidence that members of the so-called “Duterte bloc”—Senators Rodante Marcoleta, Robin Padilla, Bong Go, Bato dela Rosa, Camille Villar, and Imee Marcos—will back Escudero, despite earlier signs that Senator Marcos might also be eyeing the Senate presidency.
As for the “veterans bloc,” composed of Senators Tito Sotto, Ping Lacson, Migz Zubiri, and Loren Legarda, Estrada clarified that they are not automatically part of the minority should they refrain from supporting Escudero.
“They can still vote among themselves for a minority leader, or they can join the majority. We welcome them, of course,” he said.
Estrada reaffirmed his support for Escudero’s re-election and said he will help gather votes for the current Senate President to retain his post.