Senator Imee Marcos revealed on Friday that several of her colleagues in the incoming 20th Congress have encouraged her to run for Senate President.
“Some senators have approached me with the proposal to be their candidate for Senate President,” Marcos said in a statement, though she did not disclose whether she is seriously considering the offer.
The reelected senator underscored the importance of introducing reforms, particularly in the budget process, calling for an end to what she described as the “magical” bicameral sessions. “The right priorities in spending, considering our recurring fiscal deficits and huge indebtedness, must be legislated,” she emphasized, citing food security, education, health, and vital social services as critical areas.
Marcos also pushed back against the Budget department’s earlier claim that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. — her brother — would play a role in the legislative budgeting process after the National Expenditure Program (NEP) is submitted. “The power of the purse must be respected,” she said, calling the DBM’s statement “infirm and unconstitutional.”
She also called for broader electoral reforms, stating that political parties have devolved into tools for personal ambition rather than serving the public interest. “The Senate’s independence must always be upheld. It is non-negotiable,” Marcos added.
Aside from Marcos, Senators Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Vicente “Tito” Sotto III are also reportedly in the running for the Senate’s top post.
Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo confirmed that both Escudero and Sotto have reached out to him separately to seek his support. Tulfo, however, said he has yet to commit to either, pending a consultation with his brother, Senator Raffy Tulfo. The two reportedly had a “long discussion” on the matter, as both have working histories with the contenders.
“I need more time to consult,” Tulfo said, noting the importance of choosing a leader who can unify the chamber and focus on laws that benefit the people — not personal interests. “If we elect the wrong Senate president, we’re headed nowhere.”
