Several solons upbeat on Zubiri’s key role in approval of RBH 6

MANILA, Philippines — Several members of the House of Representatives expressed optimism on Thursday that Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri could influence his fellow senators to vote for the passage of Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6.

The resolution seeks to amend specific economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

In a press briefing at the House of Representatives, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong and Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo said that Zubiri’s vast experience as a lawmaker and former majority leader could influence other senators to green light the resolution.

“If there is a will, there is a way,” Adiong said.

“He has all the available techniques, strategies to come up with this number. In fact, that he’s still there as the Senate President proves that he has the numbers to deliver,” Adiong added, noting that RHB No. 6 needs 18 votes to be passed in the Senate.

Meanwhile, Rillo echoed Adiong’s sentiments, emphasizing that rallying 18 votes in the Senate for RBH No. 6 would test Zubiri’s leadership.

Rillo also said he views Zubiri as “one of the best congressmen the country has ever produced, one of the best senators, one of the best Majority Floor Leaders, even one of the best Senate Presidents.”

“Now, it is a big challenge to the leadership of our Senate President that if they are truly for the people, they would do their part because as we have said, we have concentrated more on the economic provisions,” Rillo said.

Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, for her part, said she believes that it is not impossible for Zubiri  to persuade his fellow senators to support the resolution, especially if it serves the Filipino people.

“Well, I respect Senator Migz Zubiri, but of course, it’s difficult to say that something is impossible when you haven’t even started it yet. Nothing is impossible if you want real service to the Filipino people,” she said in English and Filipino.