MANILA – Senate President Tito Sotto narrowly avoided being ousted from his post after the majority bloc successfully blocked an apparent coup attempt, he confirmed in a media interview on Wednesday.

Reports of a possible leadership change circulated ahead of the session, with Senator Loren Legarda rumored to assume the Senate presidency. Other reports suggested that the current minority bloc, composed mostly of pro-Duterte senators, would become the majority. Senate Minority Leader Alan Cayetano had earlier hinted at a possible change in leadership.

During the session, the Senate livestream went off air for over an hour. When it resumed, Legarda was seen occupying the top seat, with Majority Leader Migz Zubiri addressing her as “Madame President.” Sotto, however, was on the floor alongside other senators, while members of the majority bloc were seen smiling and interacting with one another. The minority bloc led by Cayetano was noticeably absent.

Despite appearances, Sotto confirmed to reporters that the majority successfully thwarted the coup. “The majority, not me,” he said.

Senator JV Ejercito, a member of the majority, suggested the possibility of term-sharing within the bloc but described it as “lounge talk” for now. Adding to speculation, Senator Kiko Pangilinan posted a photo of the majority with the hashtag “#PowerSharing.”