Former Senate President Koko Pimentel believes that the recent leadership change in the Senate is valid.
In an interview, Pimentel explained that only 23 senators could have attended the session because one senator is currently under detention.
As a result, he said that a majority of 23 is 12, a number that was reached by the senators who attended Wednesday’s session.
The former lawmaker also emphasized that the 12 senators were aware that they could not elect a new Senate President with their current numbers, which is why they designated Senator Win Gatchalian only as “Acting” Senate President.
According to Pimentel, the move was intended to allow the Senate to continue operating and conducting its business.
Meanwhile, he acknowledged that the situation in the Senate has already reached a crisis point and described the ongoing developments as troubling.
His remarks came amid a series of controversies within the chamber, including internal disputes and the cancellation of a planned visit by a foreign official to the Senate.
(PHOTO COURTESY: Senator Koko Pimentel)