JV: Chiz can talk with Solid 7 when emotions cool

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero has to talk with the so-called Solid 7 in the Senate that sided with his predecessor, Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, "after emotions have cooled off," according to Sen. JV Ejercito.

- CECILLE SUERTE FELIPE

The Solid 7 senators composed of Ejercito, Zubiri, Loren Legarda, Sonny Angara, Sherwin Gatchalian, Joel Villanueva and Nancy Binay - was described by Ejercito as "a formidable bloc." Ejercito resigned as deputy majority leader when Zubiri was forced to quit the Senate leadership.

"Eventually the new leadership has to talk to the Solid 7, still being a formidable bloc in the Senate," Ejercito. said. "But probably after emotions have cooled off." Ejercito hinted that their group has yet to decide whether they will be independent or join the minority bloc, led by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III.

The talk will probably take place "after we have decided which direction to take, whether we remain as an independent bloc or join the minority in the Senate," Ejercito noted.