Transcript of Ambush Interview with Senate President Franklin M. Drilon

Q: On the withdrawal of Chairman Francis Tolentino from the Liberal Party (LP) senatorial slate

SPFMD: Tama iyan so it will put a closure on this unfortunate episode.

Q: Pero pinapatanggal po ang pangalan niya sa pinagpipiliang LP senatorial slate.

SPFMD: That is a decision that he has made, and I support that decision that he made. He is removing himself from the slate.

Q: Graceful exit yung ginawa?

SPFMD: I support his withdrawal from the slate.

Q: With the death of former Senator Joker Arroyo, yung tradisyon po ba sa Senate ay ipapatupad po ninyo?

SPFMD: You know, I find it very awkward because there is no official confirmation from the family. I do not know what is the best thing to do.

Q: So today tuloy lang po yung session?

SPFMD: I discussed with the Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Tito Sotto, and that was our consensus, because we are in a very awkward position, as there has been no official confirmation from the family.

Q: So yung Philippine flag ay hindi po muna ihahalf-mast?

SPFMD: I wish I could answer that question, because if suppose I ask you, if you were in my position what should I do? I'm willing to do anything to honor him.

Q: On your memories working with Senator Joker Arroyo?

SPFMD: I have worked with Senator Joker Arroyo both in the Cabinet and in the Senate and I have always known him to be a brilliant lawyer, as somebody who takes strong advocacies. Here in the Senate, he was one of the most frugal. He was very conscious that he was in public service and he was very careful with the way he projected himself. So it's a loss for the country.

Q: No flags, preparations yet for Senator Arroyo as far as the Senate is concerned?

SPFMD: I have already told you that I find it very awkward. The family has not officially announced. What should be done?