Press Release
July 28, 2015

Statement of Senate President Franklin M. Drilon on Senator Francis Escudero's resignation as Senate Finance Committee chair

It is certainly commendable that Senator Francis Escudero voluntarily resigned as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, so that the 2016 national budget will be shielded from possible allegations of partisanship should he seek higher office in the next elections.

The political season is already upon us. Having said that, his resignation is a deft political move. This early, he will be able to fend off any possible accusations that the 2016 national budget is being designed to help his candidacy. As chairman of the Finance Committee, all eyes would have been on Senator Escudero, especially that of his political adversaries.

I will immediately consult with the majority coalition as to who will be the next committee chair.

Rest assured that the Senate's handling of the 2016 national budget will not be affected by this development and it will be passed on time, in order to ensure the uninterrupted flow of services and programs to the people.

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