NEWLY elected Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano revealed on Thursday, May 14, that members of the newly formed minority bloc are allegedly planning to unseat him from his leadership post just days after he took office.
During a press briefing at the Senate, Cayetano disclosed that his political rivals have been actively reaching out to lawmakers, attempting to persuade members of his own majority group to switch sides and join their efforts to remove him. “Medyo busy sila ngayon, na tina‑try kausapin yung mga miyembro namin na sumali ulit sa kanila,” Cayetano said, confirming that talks regarding a possible “coup” against his leadership are indeed circulating within the chamber.
Acknowledging the moves against him, Cayetano remained unfazed and said such attempts were anticipated. “Yes, that’s expected,” he stated plainly. He also revealed that the efforts include invitations for discussions as well as intimidation tactics, though he noted these are nothing new.
“Yes, may invitations to talk, may pananakot but dati na silang takot eh,” he added, expressing confidence that these maneuvers will not succeed in breaking his ranks. When asked whether the 13 senators who voted for him remain solidly behind his leadership, he answered realistically: “You’re always solid until you’re not. But I believe in the 13. I believe in our cause.”
Cayetano assumed the Senate presidency last Monday after securing 13 votes from his fellow lawmakers — enough to unseat former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. Notably included among those who supported his bid was Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who made a dramatic return to the chamber after six months away from public view amid legal troubles linked to the International Criminal Court. The narrow 13‑vote majority has since become the center of attention, with the minority bloc reportedly working double‑time to chip away at Cayetano’s support and regain control of the upper house.
The latest revelations come at a time when the Senate is already facing deep divisions and intense scrutiny over recent events — from the lockdown and gunfire incident earlier this week to Dela Rosa’s stay and eventual departure from the premises, as well as the impending convening of the Senate as an Impeachment Court to tackle the case against Vice President Sara Duterte. Cayetano’s leadership is now being tested on multiple fronts, both from political opponents within the chamber and from major national issues that demand urgent attention.
