Manila, Philippines – July 5, 2025 — As the 20th Congress officially opens on July 28, all eyes are on the Senate as its 24 members prepare to elect the next Senate President, with three prominent names emerging as potential contenders.
Leading the race is incumbent Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, followed by former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, who previously held the position from 2018 to 2022, and reelectionist Senator Imee Marcos, who has reportedly been encouraged by her colleagues to run for the post.
Escudero Gathers Majority Support
According to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, if the vote were held today, Escudero would likely secure the majority and retain the leadership. Cayetano revealed that Escudero already has the support of at least 13 senators, the minimum number required to win the presidency.
Senator Joel Villanueva echoed Cayetano’s assessment, stating that Escudero enjoys strong backing from many colleagues. He clarified, however, that while no formal resolution is circulating, discussions among senators are ongoing behind the scenes.
Senators Raffy and Erwin Tulfo have expressed willingness to support whoever garners the majority vote. Raffy Tulfo noted that aligning with the majority often results in better cooperation with the administration’s legislative agenda. He also confirmed he may be part of the 13-senator group supporting Escudero.
Sotto Backed by ‘Veteran Bloc’
Meanwhile, Senator Ping Lacson expressed his support for Sotto, citing the former Senate President’s strong leadership record. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, a former Senate leader himself, is also rallying behind Sotto, disappointed with Escudero’s current leadership. Zubiri said their newly formed “Veteran Bloc”—which includes Lacson and Senator Loren Legarda—is pushing for Sotto’s return to Senate leadership. However, Legarda has yet to publicly endorse a candidate.
Sotto has acknowledged that should he not win the Senate presidency, he is prepared to lead the minority bloc instead.
Marcos: A Possible Third Option
Senator Imee Marcos has confirmed that some of her colleagues have approached her to consider running for Senate President. While she hasn’t officially declared her candidacy, she emphasized that whoever leads the Senate must pursue reforms in the institution.
Undecided Senators Hold the Key
Despite some senators already declaring their support, many remain silent on their preferences. Those who have yet to make their stance known include Senators Lito Lapid, Sherwin Gatchalian, Risa Hontiveros, Bam Aquino, Kiko Pangilinan, Mark Villar, Camille Villar, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, JV Ejercito, Jinggoy Estrada, Christopher “Bong” Go, Robinhood Padilla, Rodante Marcoleta, and Pia Cayetano.
Final Decision Rests with the Senate
As the opening of Congress draws near, the question of who will lead the Senate remains open. For his part, Escudero stated that he would leave the decision to the majority of the Senate, and will respect the outcome, whether or not he retains his post.
The election of the next Senate President is expected to shape not only the legislative agenda of the upper chamber but also the broader direction of national policymaking in the 20th Congress.
