UMVA has learned that a dramatic controversy is unfolding in the corridors of power, with two prominent senators denying allegations of a secret plot to manipulate the country's constitution and potentially disqualify a high-ranking official from holding office.
The alleged plan, which has sparked widespread outrage and speculation, centers on a proposed constitutional assembly aimed at adjusting the age requirement for the country's top two offices, potentially to bar Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio from eligibility.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Senate minority leader Vicente C. Sotto III has categorically denied any discussion of a constitutional assembly, stating that his previous comments on the age requirement were misconstrued and taken out of context, amounting to nothing more than "friendly talk".
Sotto's denial was echoed by Senator Panfilo "Ping" M. Lacson, who also vehemently rejected claims of a secret plot, labeling them as "flat lies" and "outright lies", and emphasizing that no such discussions have taken place, even in private caucuses within the minority group.
The controversy began when Senator Maria Imelda "Imee" R. Marcos claimed that a constitutional assembly was being planned, with the goal of raising the age requirement for presidents to 50 years old, and potentially extending the terms of higher officials, sparking a firestorm of speculation and concern.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the situation remains highly volatile, with many questions still unanswered, and the true intentions of the parties involved remaining shrouded in mystery, leaving the public to wonder what ultimately lies behind the allegations and denials.
