Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri apologized to residents of Bukidnon after joining the minority bloc in the Senate, saying he was allegedly betrayed by four fellow senators.
During a press conference in Malaybalay City on May 27, Zubiri addressed criticisms over his decision not to join the majority group.
“To everyone disappointed that I did not join the majority group, I ask for your forgiveness,” Zubiri said.
The senator identified Sen. Bong Go, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Sen. Imee Marcos and Sen. Robin Padilla as the lawmakers who allegedly withdrew their support from him.
According to Zubiri, the four senators had publicly pledged support for him while he served as Senate president from 2022 to 2024.
Zubiri recalled statements made by the senators during that period, including remarks describing him as the “best Senate president ever” and promises of continued support.
He claimed that their withdrawal of support contributed to his removal from the Senate presidency.
“If they had not left me, I would not have been removed as Senate president,” Zubiri said, adding that only eight senators remained supporting him at the time.
Despite joining the minority bloc, Zubiri assured Bukidnon residents that he remains willing to work with lawmakers outside his political group.
He also denied claims linking his political position to the Duterte family, saying the issue was not about the Dutertes.
“This is not about the Dutertes,” Zubiri said during the press conference, while adding that he still values the Duterte family.
On May 20, 2024, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero replaced Zubiri as Senate president following a leadership change in the Senate.
