MANILA — Sen. Panfilo Lacson expressed appreciation to members of the Senate majority bloc, saying they responded to a “higher calling” that goes beyond personal relationships, political affiliations, and self-interest, as they took on their roles as legislators.

In his manifestation before nominating Sen. Vicente Sotto III as Senate President Pro Tempore, Lacson said he was recognizing colleagues for prioritizing the integrity of the institution over other considerations.

“I think I will be remiss of my duty and responsibility as a senator, colleague, and friend, if I didn’t thank and commend our two distinguished colleagues, Senator Chiz Escudero and Senator Joel Villanueva, for responding to their higher calling for this chamber, our beloved institution known as the Philippine Senate. Higher than their friendships. Their affiliations. And every individual member of this body. Even higher than themselves,” he said.

The majority bloc, led by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, attended the special Senate session on Wednesday, with Senators Francis Escudero and Joel Villanueva joining as the newest members of the group.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian was earlier elected Senate President Pro Tempore during the Senate session on June 3, following developments that saw Sen. Francis Escudero joining 11 members of the then-minority to form a quorum.

Lacson also disclosed his new committee assignments, saying he had given up the chairmanship of the Blue Ribbon Committee and was instead appointed to lead the Committees on Accounts, Public Order and Illegal Drugs, and Ways and Means.

“In his manifestation, Lacson put on record that he intentionally and voluntarily relinquished the chairmanship of the Blue Ribbon Committee, for two primary reasons – “Number one, I am tired of losing old friends and creating new enemies. And number two, there are other colleagues who are equally, if not more qualified than this humble representation to take on the job.”

He added that he would have retained the post if no one else had taken over, despite his reluctance.

“If there were no takers, I was willing, albeit, with a heavy heart to retain and continue sitting as chairman and resume a duty that I am morally and obligated to perform,” he added.