Zubiri ousted as Senate president

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is expected to step down today as some senators reportedly succeeded in removing him.

Zubiri's office said the senator will give a speech this afternoon. He assumed the Senate presidency in July 2022.

Senate Majority Leader Emmanuel Joel Villanueva has confirmed the leadership change in a text message to reporters.

«Agenda for today: change of leadership. Thank you guys for your trust and confidence,» Villanueva said.

«God bless our beloved Senate! Signing off as your Majority Leader,» Villanueva said.

Some senators were earlier reported to be plotting a coup against Zubiri to install Sen. Francis Escudero this week or before Congress adjourns on May 24.

The Senate and House of Representatives will go on a two-month break on May 25. They will reopen for a joint session on July 22 to hear the state of the nation address of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.