MANILA — Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada refuted claims on Tuesday (06 March 2024) suggesting his involvement in an alleged scheme to unseat Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri from his position at the helm of the upper chamber.
Dismissing the rumors, Estrada stated firmly, “There’s no truth to it. To dispel any doubts, there’s absolutely no truth to it,” in response to inquiries regarding purported efforts by certain senators to persuade him to take over Zubiri’s role.
Estrada emphasized his readiness to endorse the resolution expressing support for Zubiri’s leadership, which was reportedly circulated among senators for signing. “Certainly, I would sign it. However, I’ve yet to receive a copy. How can I sign it if they won’t provide me with one?” he questioned.
While acknowledging the swirling rumors, Estrada expressed ignorance about their origins.
In the event of being ousted from the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Defense and Security, Estrada affirmed his intention to seek clarification regarding the decision to replace him.
Speculation circulated that Estrada was being considered as a replacement for Zubiri due to his close ties with Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who finds himself in disagreement with the Senate president over the thwarted people’s initiative to amend the Constitution.
Expressing gratitude to his peers for their unwavering support amid renewed coup speculations over the weekend, Zubiri extended his thanks on Tuesday.
On Monday, a statement of support for Zubiri’s leadership, signed by 14 senators, including Zubiri himself, was released.
“I am deeply honored by the continued trust my colleagues have placed in my leadership of the Senate. I consistently maintain that I serve at the pleasure of my colleagues, and with their resolute backing, I am encouraged to persist in my role as Senate President,” Zubiri remarked in a statement.
(By el Amigo/MNM)
