PASAY CITY, Philippines — Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Saturday, October 3, said Senator Loren Legarda would be welcomed back to the Senate majority bloc following indications that she may be considering a return.
Speaking in a radio interview, Lacson noted that Legarda was previously part of the majority coalition before joining the minority, adding that discussions regarding her potential return have taken place.
“Kung halimbawa gusto niyo sumanib uli sa majority, napag-uusapan namin ito. Welcome naman siya,” Lacson said.
Lacson recounted a recent conversation with Legarda where she allegedly admitted to making a mistake when she chose to leave the majority bloc.
“Hindi siya sinasagot ni Tito Sen, pero sabi niya, inamin sa interim, nagkamali nga raw siya. Sabi ko, kalimutan mo na ‘yon. Tapos na ‘yon,” Lacson revealed.
Despite the ongoing discussions, Lacson cautioned that Legarda’s re-entry to the majority is not yet final.
“Still the fat lady sings,” Lacson said, emphasizing that political dynamics could still shift.
“Hanggang kung hindi nangyayari, hindi siya nasa majority,” he added.
Lacson also clarified that joining the majority bloc would not determine how Legarda or any other senator votes in the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing that majority members do not vote as a single unit on impeachment matters.
“Hindi naman automatic yan na, ano, dahil majority ka, magko-convict ka?” he said.
He noted that senators are withholding their individual stances as the trial is still developing and the defense has yet to present its evidence.
“Developing story to eh,” Lacson said.
“Hindi pa natin alam kung anong ihaharap ng defense eh. Baka napakatibay nung kanilang defense, ang ebidensya nila. Eh puwedeng kung may mga desisyon na rin yung iba, puwede makapagbago yun,” he added.
Lacson agreed that the decision on how to vote remains entirely with each individual senator rather than being dictated by bloc membership.
Addressing Legarda’s current absence, Lacson advised her to return to the Philippines if her health allows, as preliminary inquiries involving her and her son remain in early stages.
Legarda has been on medical leave for treatment in France since August 3, with her approved leave extended through October 9.
“Kung kaya ng health niya, I would suggest na bumalik siya rito,” Lacson suggested.