Lacson dismisses coup rumors against Sotto as fake news

Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson debunked rumors of a coup to unseat Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III, calling the allegations "fake news" intended to deceive and confuse the public.

Lacson described the rumor, which claimed Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano had gathered enough votes to take over the Senate presidency, as a "malevolent, underhanded, foul and desperate" attempt to sow discord.

He emphasized that any legitimate change in Senate leadership would follow proper channels and require a resolution signed by at least 13 senators, with the current Senate President duly informed.

This situation arises shortly after a previous leadership change where Francis "Chiz" Escudero was ousted and replaced by Sotto with the support of 15 senators.