Sotto unfazed by Enrile’s comeback bid

The 94-year-old seasoned lawmaker is vying for a Senate seat in the 2019 mid-term elections. (File Photo: Juan Ponce Enrile/Facebook)

MANILA — Senate President Vicente Sotto III said Wednesday he is not at all threatened by former senator Juan Ponce Enrile’s comeback bid, saying he would even gladly hand over the Senate presidency to Enrile if circumstances warrant it.

Enrile, more popularly known as JPE, has served as Senate President under two administrations — under Gloria Macapagal Arroyo from 2008 to 2010, and again under Benigno Aquino III from 2010 to 2013.

The 94-year-old seasoned lawmaker is vying for a Senate seat in the 2019 mid-term elections.

“Why would I be threatened with that? I’ve heard the interview of JPE and, asked about my Senate presidency, he gave nice words,” Sotto said when asked by reporters over the possibility that Enrile might regain the Senate presidency if he wins in May.

Sotto, who has only served as Senate President (SP) since May 21 of this year, added that he has no qualms about handing over the Senate presidency to Enrile if his fellow senators would vote for the latter.

The Senate President is elected by the majority of the members of the Senate from among themselves.

“He would be an asset. If my colleagues will elect him as SP, I will give it. I serve at the pleasure of my colleagues,” he said.

In the meantime, Sotto said he enjoys the full support of his colleagues.

“Oo (Yes), I am confident with that,” he said.