SENATE President Aquilino Pimentel III on Sunday debunked reports that he would share his term with Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III after the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.
“I’m categorically saying we have no term sharing. But I am also categorically saying that anytime that my colleagues would want to replace me, I am willing to let go,” Pimentel said.
Sotto’s term of office ends in June next year and will may no longer run for reelection after serving two consecutive terms. Others in this situation are Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, and Senators Gregorio Honasan, Antonio Trillanes IV, Loren Legarda and Francis Escudero.
Pimentel said he does not feel threatened about losing his presidency because he is ready to leave any time.
“I should be able to let go anytime. I know that,” he said.
Since he is seeking reelection in the May 2019 polls, Pimentel said he’s also reviewing the setup in the Senate if he runs.
“Will it be okay with them that I am a candidate and at the same time the Senate President?” he said.
“So we will talk about all these things,” said Pimentel, adding that he will consult Sotto since he has very practical knowledge.
In fact, when he filed his certificate of candidacy, Pimentel said he consulted Sotto on what’s best for the Senate.
He also guaranteed there will be no hurt feelings on his part if his colleagues in the Senate want a new leader.
“I will still be a part of the majority and support the new Senate president,” he said.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, a member of the majority bloc, also dismissed reports there will be a change in Senate leadership after the impeachment trial on Sereno. He said there was no reason to replace Pimentel.