Senate leadership remains stable despite political tensions linked to the possible impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, a lawmaker said.
The issue of leadership surfaced amid speculation that the Senate presidency could be challenged to block or delay impeachment proceedings.
Senator Erwin Tulfo said changing leadership at this time would be impractical, citing broader national concerns including the ongoing oil crisis.
“I mean we have a lot of problems… Huwag natin unahin ang ating sarili, ang ating mga partido… Dapat yung interes ng tao muna,” Tulfo said, stressing that public interest should take priority.
He also downplayed the possibility of any leadership change, saying there are not enough votes to oust Senate President Vicente Sotto III.
“I don’t think so. I think they cannot muster enough votes for that,” he added.
Talks of leadership changes have surfaced repeatedly whenever Congress resumes session, but Tulfo said he does not see any resistance among senators at present.
Former Senate president Aquilino Pimentel III earlier said senators seeking to block the impeachment trial may attempt to change leadership, noting that Sotto has indicated the Senate will act “forthwith” once the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted.