Chiz on alleged ouster plot: Still just a rumor

Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero —Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Wednesday dismissed as a mere “rumor’’ an alleged plot to unseat him after just four months in the chamber’s top post.

“The leadership of the House or the Senate … serves at the pleasure of the majority. We will remain here until we enjoy the confidence of the majority. It is that simple,” Escudero told reporters.

“It is a rumor until it happens,” he said. “If it happens, then it becomes a reality and fact. But in the meantime, it is (just) a rumor. You cannot expect me to comment on a rumor.”

READ: Estrada denies plot vs Escudero but confirms foiled ouster try

Escudero was asked about word making the rounds since Tuesday that at least 15 senators had signed a resolution to replace him.

The rumored plan was supposed to be carried out before Congress takes a break on Sept. 26, just like Escudero led the ouster of then Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on May 20, just three days before the recess.

“At any point in time that we have sessions, the leadership can be changed once they lose the confidence of the majority as what happened when (Zubiri) was replaced. It’s just like that,” Escudero said. “(That’s) part of life. Again, we serve at the pleasure of the majority.”

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, the chamber’s second in command, earlier denied allegations that he was behind moves to unseat Escudero.

Senators Loren Legarda and Cynthia Villar also brushed aside speculation that they were interested in taking over.

Senators JV Ejercito, Ramon Revilla Jr., and Ronald dela Rosa assured Escudero of their full support.