Senator Panfilo Lacson criticized Sen. Rodante Marcoleta over what he described as “ego-driven” objections during a Commission on Appointments (CA) special session that confirmed the promotions of five Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officials and 85 Foreign Service Officers.
Lacson said Marcoleta objected to his manifestation urging the prompt confirmation of AFP officers, arguing that the delayed action was not the fault of the nominees but a consequence of earlier disruptions in Senate proceedings.
“Gusto niya, hindi raw siya mag-object, basta i-withdraw ko rin ang manifestation ko. Ano siya, hilo? Ego ‘yan. Gusto niya ipakita na mali ang aking manifestation. I refused. I’m not playing to his ego,” Lacson said in an interview over radio dzBB.
He added that Marcoleta insisted on his position and refused to accept explanations.
“Kilala naman natin siya. Basta maipilit ang kanya, ‘yun ang tama sa kanya. Ayaw makinig ng reason,” he said.
During the CA session, Lacson moved for the immediate confirmation of the AFP officials and foreign service officers, saying the delays were beyond their control due to Senate leadership issues.
Marcoleta, however, argued that the officers were considered bypassed as they had fallen within the one-year prohibition period before mandatory retirement.
Lacson countered that the CA special session remained a continuation of the First Regular Session of the 20th Congress, and therefore should not be treated as a new regular session.
He said Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri later attempted to mediate between them, but Marcoleta maintained his objection unless Lacson withdrew his manifestation.
Lacson said he initially invoked CA procedures to push for confirmation of the five AFP officials but later proceeded after Marcoleta reportedly withdrew his objection.
He also argued that Section 20 of the CA rules—which allows a member to suspend consideration or confirmation of a nominee—cannot be invoked on the last day of session.
“Sabi ko, tuloy na natin. Maybe he realized Section 20 would not apply anymore, so he stopped objecting and even supported the motion,” he said.
Lacson added a critical remark on the pace of proceedings, noting delays during the session.
“Bakit kailangang guluhin? Minamadali na nga, ala-una na ng hapon, hindi pa kami nagla-lunch,” he said.