Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero is poised to retain his seat as the chamber’s leader in the 20th Congress, now with at least 13 of 24 senators eyeing to vote for him.
Senator Joel Villanueva disclosed the numbers in a press conference on Monday, saying he had personally reached out to his colleagues to gauge their positions.
“If we were to hold the elections today, we already know — and I think your information is as good as mine — that Senate President Chiz Escudero will be retained as our Senate president,” said Villanueva.
Villanueva confirmed he is among those supporting Escudero, citing both his leadership record and his rapport with fellow lawmakers.
“For me, the decision was easy because we are result-oriented. At the end of the day, you look at the accomplishments of the Senate during his tenure, and there are many measures passed, and at the same time, the respect he gives to our senators,” he said.
According to Villanueva, Escudero currently has the backing of at least 13 senators, which constitutes a simple majority needed to secure the leadership post.
“I am confident because I have talked to at least a majority of the senators, so I can say that. But of course, every day is another day, I cannot say if their votes would change. But as far as I am concerned, I have already talked to 13 of them,” he added.
Escudero, who took over the Senate presidency earlier this year, has been credited for steering key legislative priorities, including economic reforms and measures aimed at improving transparency and accountability in government.
The formal election of the Senate president will take place during the opening session of the 20th Congress, where any senator may still be nominated should alliances shift in the days ahead.
