Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero is likely to keep his post as leader of the chamber in the upcoming 20th Congress, with at least 13 senators reportedly ready to support him.
In an Inquirer.net report, Senator Joel Villanueva confirmed the number during a press briefing on Monday, noting that he had spoken directly with many of his colleagues. “If we were to hold the elections today… Senate President Chiz Escudero will be retained as our Senate president,” Villanueva said.
He emphasized that his support for Escudero was based on the Senate’s output under his leadership and his respectful rapport with fellow lawmakers. “At the end of the day, you look at the accomplishments of the Senate during his tenure, and there are many measures passed,” he added.
Villanueva said he has already spoken with 13 senators who indicated support for Escudero, though he acknowledged that things could still change. “Every day is another day… but as far as I am concerned, I have already talked to 13 of them.”
Senator Erwin Tulfo also confirmed that he and his brother, Senator Raffy Tulfo, are part of the 13 lawmakers expected to vote for Escudero. “We’re the majority, so we’ll vote for the majority,” he said. “A few days ago, there’s already a number — I think 13. I guess we’re already included.”
Despite Escudero’s lead, other names have surfaced in discussions around the Senate presidency, including Senator Imee Marcos and former Senate president Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. Both have reportedly reached out to various blocs within the Senate for support. Sotto, meanwhile, said he is open to taking on the role of Senate minority leader if he does not clinch the top post.
