For Carpio, Gatchalian bloc had valid quorum with Jinggoy's detention
Former Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio argues that a bloc of 12 senators had a valid quorum to reorganize the Philippine Senate. He contends that Senator Jinggoy Estrada should be excluded from the count due to his suspension following a plunder case.
Why it matters
This legal interpretation directly impacts the legitimacy of the current Senate leadership and the ongoing political power struggle in the Philippines.
About Us | Contact Us | Advertise | Privacy Policy | Member Agreement | Copyright Notice Copyright (c) 2026. Philstar Global Corp. All Rights Reserved My Profile Sign Out Subscribe Subscribe HOME HEADLINES OPINION NATION WORLD BUSINESS SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT LIFESTYLE EVENTS COUPONS OTHER SECTIONS X DUTERTE ICC TRIAL CORRUPTION SCANDAL FUEL PRICE TRACKER INFLUENCE OPERATIONS EXPLAINERS FACT CHECKS CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT VIDEOS NEWS COMMENTARIES Headlines 12 senators had valid quorum to reorganize Senate - Carpio Philstar.com June 9, 2026 | 7:00am Sens. Tito Sotto and Miguel Zubiri, who are members of the former majority, move to declare all Senate positions vacant prior to naming Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian the new Senate president pro tempore with a quorum of 12 senators on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. The STAR / Ryan Baldemor MANILA, Philippines - Twelve senators could validly act on Senate leadership posts in the current bloc rivalry, former Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said, arguing that Sen. Jinggoy Estrada should not be counted in determining the majority because of his pending plunder case and detention.
The article reports on a legal expert's opinion regarding a specific constitutional interpretation without taking a side in the political conflict.
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