Minority now majority bloc as Escudero switches sides

(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Francis Escudero became the 12th senator to join the minority. In a surprise turn of events, the Senate 11-member minority bloc has now become the majority although the fate of Senate PresidentAlan Peter Cayetano remained uncertain as 13 senators were needed to replace him. Sen. Erwin Tulfo is presiding over a press briefing as of postingn time on Wednesday. Escudero, who belonged to the majority bloc, suddenly appeared during session creating a quorum.