Drilon sees end to Senate impasse

Senate President Franklin Drilon expressed confidence yesterday that the Senate impasse would be broken "in favor of the administration bloc" before the start of Congress’ second regular session on July 22.

Speaking before the Kilosbayan forum organized by former Senate President Jovito Salonga, Drilon anchored his confidence on the acceptance by opposition Sen. Blas Ople of the foreign affairs portfolio once a formal offer is made.

"Based on the statements of Sen. Edgardo Angara and Senator Ople, I am confident that Senator Ople will accept once an offer is made. That would give the administration bloc a 12-11 edge. We will continue to improve on this edge to strengthen the majority," he added.

Responding to a question by Salonga, Drilon said he would recognize only Sen. Loren Legarda as majority leader once the second regular session starts, even if opposition Sen. Aquilino Pimentel rises at the same time.

The opposition-led "new majority" recognizes Pimentel as majority leader while the administration bloc recognizes Legarda.

"Should Senator Pimentel make noises because I did not recognize him, his protestations would amount to nothing because I, as presiding officer, recognize Senator Legarda only," he said.

He also stressed that should the rival claimants to the chairmanship of the Blue Ribbon Committee, Sen. Joker Arroyo of the administration bloc, and Angara of the opposition, call simultaneous committee hearings, he would recognize only the one called by Arroyo. — With Aurea Calica