Senator Erwin Tulfo on Monday brushed off speculations of a leadership shake-up in the upper chamber, asserting that any attempt to oust Senate President Vicente Sotto III lacks the necessary legislative backing.
The statement comes as the Senate prepares for the potential arrival of impeachment articles against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Tulfo argued that those seeking a “Senate coup” would fail to secure the numbers required to effect a change in leadership.
“I don’t think so. They can’t muster enough votes for that,” Tulfo said.
The lawmaker urged his colleagues to pivot away from political power plays and focus on the economic burdens facing Filipino citizens, citing rising costs of living and inadequate social services.
“Napakadaming problema- problema sa petrolyo, healthcare… Mga tao hindi alam saan kukuha pambayad sa ospital, pagkain napakamahal, salary… Uunahin pa ba natin muna yung change of leadership?”
Tulfo’s remarks were a direct response to concerns raised by former Senator Koko Pimentel, who suggested that certain factions might orchestrate a leadership change to influence or derail the impending impeachment proceedings.
Despite the political noise, Tulfo confirmed his office is already laying the groundwork for the Senate’s role in a potential trial.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson previously indicated that the chamber could be formally convened as an impeachment court within the month, with a tentative start date for the trial in June.
This development follows the House Committee on Justice’s recent approval of its report regarding the clarificatory hearings held against the Vice President.