Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday confirmed that the incoming Senate minority bloc has started discussions regarding their future direction under the Marcos administration.
Earlier, Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said he will discuss with Hontiveros the formation of the Senate minority bloc with both of them a member of the group.
Hontiveros confirmed she and Pimentel have already held initial talks and disclosed there are other senators who have expressed their intention to join the minority bloc.
“We have talked to some senators to explore the possibility of their inclusion to the minority bloc but the discussions are still in the very early stages,” Hontiveros said in a televised interview.
The only opposition senator to be reelected last May 9, 2022, Hontiveros stressed the crucial role of the minority bloc in ensuring checks and balances in government.
“Checks and balances do not mean absolute opposition to what the government is pushing for,” she said.
“This is an essential element in any government, in any society, especially in a democratic country which we continue to advocate,” added Hontiveros.
“That is (also) necessary in the Senate, in the government, and in society,” she said.
Hontiveros noted how being part of the minority and becoming an active fiscalizer have helped the Senate in producing several laws.
She said she believes that checks and balances should continue in the incoming administration.
“We should entertain not only one advocacy but a diverse perspective to ensure that everyone will have their representation,” she said.