Senator Lito Lapid clarified on the Senate floor that he has not transferred to the majority bloc, dismissing circulating social media claims, as he instead called for unity and respect among senators amid recent political discussions.

During the plenary session, the Majority Floor Leader Joel Villanueva formally sought recognition for Lapid, prompting Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano to acknowledge him with a remark highlighting his long-standing presence in the chamber.

“May I ask for silence? We want to listen to the legend,” Cayetano said before giving Lapid the floor.

Lapid then issued a clear denial of reports that he had joined the majority bloc.

“Kaliwanagan lang po… tungkol po sa nangyari kahapon at marami pong kumakalat sa social media na ako’y lumipat na sa Majority, hindi po totoo ‘yan. Mananatili po ako sa minority group at hindi po ako aalis dito,” Lapid said.

He also expressed support for a motion raised by Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, saying he intended to voice his position earlier but was unable to do so.

Lapid appealed for unity inside the chamber, especially in light of visiting religious leaders and the need to restore public trust in the institution.

“Sana magkaisa tayo… Ang dami-dami nating bisitang pari dito. Ipagdasal po natin na magkaisa na kami para may balik ang dangal ng Senado,” he said.

Senate President Cayetano responded by noting Lapid’s statement, adding: “Your manifestation is noted. And wala ka man sa majority, Senator Lito Lapid, nandiyan ka parati sa puso namin.”

In a lighter moment during the session, Senator Pia Cayetano thanked Lapid for his continued personal gestures despite political differences.

“Gusto ko lang magpasalamat kay Senator Lito Lapid na kahit magkaiba na tayo ng partido… buwan-buwan nagpapadala pa rin siya sa akin ng maja blanca at suman,” she said.

Lapid responded warmly, saying, "Gusto ko po kasing malaman mo na mahal kita,” drawing laughter from colleagues in the chamber.

The exchange highlighted a rare moment of camaraderie on the Senate floor amid ongoing political realignments.