Sotto denies political deal as Lacson reclaims senate post

Senate President Tito Sotto denied speculation, on Oct. 22, that the resignation of Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chairperson Panfilo Lacson was meant to protect his leadership following the confirmation of his reassumption of the chairmanship on Nov. 10.

Lacson backed down from his position last Oct. 6 following concerns about the direction of the flood control issues raised by his fellow senators. 

Sotto exclaimed that Lacson had agreed to retain the chairmanship amid the ongoing probe into controversial flood-control projects.

“It could be an idea, but as far as he was concerned, during that time [resignation], he was frustrated,” Sotto pointed out on the power preservation speculations during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum last Tuesday. 

Lacson’s return to the position raises expectations that long-pending corruption investigations may be revived for prosecution.

This was confirmed by Senate President Tito Sotto on Tuesday, October 21. 

Vice Chairman Senator Erwin Tulfo was named as the acting chairperson of the panel after his resignation. 

“They are busy. They do not want to neglect their [respective] committees,” said Sotto on other possible senators willing to take the role.  

Senator JV Ejercito exclaimed that there are no takers of the vacant chairperson position during a press briefing when asked whether Lacson would be back as BRC chairman when the Senate resumes session.

Lacson said his return to the Blue Ribbon Committee could cause members of the majority bloc to withdraw their support, which may even threaten Sotto’s hold on the Senate presidency last Monday, October 20.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee handles inquiries involving alleged misuse of public funds, including procurement irregularities and COA-flagged transactions.