Senator Revilla calls for prayer, reconciliation amid BBM-Sara row

National

SENATOR Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. weighed in on the growing rift between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, referring to the divide as a clash between "red" and "green" camps.

Revilla said on Thursday, December 12, that the ongoing tension poses risks to the nation, emphasizing that Filipinos will ultimately bear the brunt of such conflicts.

"Para sa akin, pagnagka bangga-bangga sa ating bansa, nagkakalaban, ang maapektuhan diyan ang taong bayan (For me, when there are clashes in our country and opposing sides fight, it is the people who are affected)," he said.

Revilla answered political questions during a press conference with actress Beauty Gonzales to promote the third season of their TV series "Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis."

The senator expressed concern over the fallout, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in government. He said that a fractured leadership undermines efforts to address pressing national issues and sows further division among citizens.

He described the political conflict as a clash of "red" and "green" camps, symbolizing their respective political colors, and cautioned that it creates unnecessary distractions from governance.

He also called for prayer and reconciliation, stating, "So, pi-pray ko sana maayos pa rin (I pray that things will still be resolved)."

The senator's remarks come at a time when the fallout between Marcos and Duterte continues to dominate the political scene. Duterte's resignation from the Cabinet, citing incompetence, and critical remarks from her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, have intensified tensions.

Meanwhile, Revilla also denied circulating rumors of a plan within the Senate to replace Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero with Senator Cynthia Villar.

Revilla clarified that there is no active move to unseat Escudero, stressing that the Senate remains focused on its legislative priorities.

Escudero assumed the Senate presidency last May, succeeding former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri after gaining the support of 15 senators. To secure the position, a candidate needs the backing of at least 13 senators, which constitutes a simple majority of the chamber's 24 members.(MyTVCebu)