Seven senators aligned with former President Rodrigo Duterte pledged support for Senate President Francis Escudero’s continued leadership in the upper chamber, Senator Ronald dela Rosa claimed on Wednesday during a press conference.
Dela Rosa confirmed that the group, informally called the “Duter7,” has committed to backing Escudero’s re-election bid. “The biggest factor I see is his openness. He listens to all sides, and that’s the kind of leadership we appreciate,” he said.
The bloc includes Dela Rosa, Senators Christopher Go, Robinhood Padilla, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Mark Villar, and Camille Villar. Dela Rosa emphasized that their support came without any political conditions, such as committee assignments or positions related to the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“I didn’t ask for anything. I simply liked the way he leads us. He’s not close-minded, and that’s what we need as a democratic institution,” he added.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros said she remains unfazed by reports that opposition allies Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan may soon join the Senate majority. “I’m not hurt because that’s just how it is, as long as I continue to stand firm,” she said, adding that even if she ends up as the sole minority member in the 20th Congress, her stance would remain unchanged.
