Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri resigned as Senate president on Monday, May 20, passing the role to Senator Francis Escudero. Zubiri cited his commitment to the Senate's independence and his refusal to comply with instructions as reasons for stepping down.
In his farewell speech, he emphasized his efforts to maintain the Senate's autonomy, particularly in opposing Charter change initiatives. Zubiri asserted that under his leadership, the Senate remained independent and resilient against threats to democracy.
Tensions Over PDEA Probe: Strain on Zubiri's Leadership
Zubiri's tenure was not without controversy. Just a week before his resignation, tensions rose between Zubiri and the Marcos camp over a Senate probe into alleged Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) leaks implicating President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in illegal drugs. Zubiri's handling of the investigation reportedly angered the Marcos loyalists, who viewed it as a sign of weakness in leadership.
Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV claimed that it was former President Rodrigo Duterte who instructed Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa to conduct hearings on the PDEA leaks. Despite multiple hearings, no substantial evidence linking Marcos to illegal drugs was established, with Zubiri cautioning against the politicization of Senate proceedings.
Cha-cha's Demise Under New Leadership
Zubiri's resignation signals a significant shift in the Senate's stance on constitutional amendments. With Escudero assuming leadership, Zubiri declared the demise of Cha-cha, stating unequivocally that any amendment to the 1987 Constitution would not prosper under the new administration. Senator Juan Edgardo Angara's resignation from key positions further solidifies this stance, effectively halting scheduled consultations on proposed amendments to the Charter's economic provisions.
Escudero, known for his opposition to Cha-cha, affirmed his commitment to the new direction of the Senate. While acknowledging the possibility of discussion within the majority, Escudero made clear his unwavering stance against constitutional amendments.
