Sen. Francis Escudero retained his post as Senate President with a 19-5 vote as the 20th Congress opened, securing support from a newly consolidated “supermajority” bloc that included allies of former President Duterte.
Critics accused Escudero of gaining votes by allegedly delaying the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, but the senator maintained a unifying tone, urging colleagues to focus on legislation that benefits ordinary Filipinos.
Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva were elected Senate President Pro Tempore and Majority Leader, while Sen. Vicente Sotto III assumed the role of Minority Leader.
In his speech, Escudero emphasized Senate independence, rejecting “mob rule” and encouraging respectful debate despite political differences.
He outlined priorities such as job creation, education, healthcare, and national security, declaring that all laws must pass the test of whether they truly help the Filipino people.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 29, 2025
