Manila: Senator Pia Cayetano said on Wednesday she is carefully weighing whether to accept the chairmanship of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, citing her current responsibilities as head of two major committees and the heavy workload that comes with the post.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cayetano is among the five senators shortlisted by Senate President Vicente 'Tito' Sotto III for the position following the resignation of Senator Panfilo Lacson. She said her name was mentioned during the Senate majority caucus, but clarified that no formal offer has been made.

'Hindi madaling umoo sa mga ganyang bagong posisyon (It's not easy to accept such new positions). And because my name was mentioned, eh di it's my job to consider it (then it's my job to consider it),' she told reporters in an interview. The senator, who currently chairs the Committees on Energy and on Ways and Means, said she intended to use the congressional break to reflect and pray about the possibility of taking on the role.

'Mabigat yung trabaho na yun (That's a heavy responsibility). I will use this time na walang session to pray about it and to think about it kung maha-handle ko siya (to pray about it and think if I can handle it),' she said. She added that while she does not doubt her capability to lead the Blue Ribbon Committee, she wants 'the best person for the job' given the gravity of the issues under investigation, including the alleged anomalies in flood control projects. 'This is a defining moment for the Filipino people,' Cayetano said.

Aside from Cayetano, Senators Risa Hontiveros, JV Ejercito, and Raffy Tulfo were also among those being considered to head the powerful committee. Tulfo, in a statement issued, said he was honored to be considered but would decline the post if offered. Ejercito expressed gratitude for being shortlisted but said he recognizes his limitations.