The Senate of the Philippines has officially announced the list of senators who will chair the various standing committees for the 20th Congress. The committee chairmanships, a crucial element of the legislative process, reflect not only the expertise and political influence of each senator but also the policy priorities of the current administration.
Marcoleta Leads Blue Ribbon and Trade Committees
Senator Rodante Marcoleta, known for his hard-hitting investigations in previous sessions, has been designated as the chairperson of the Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, more popularly known as the Blue Ribbon Committee. He will also helm the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship, giving him a powerful role in both government oversight and economic legislation.
Cayetano Heads Four Committees
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has secured leadership over four committees: Accounts, Higher and Technical Education, Justice and Human Rights, and Science and Technology. His appointments reflect trust in his legislative experience and versatility across different sectors.
Pangilinan and Aquino Take on Education and Agriculture
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, a long-time advocate for food security, will chair the Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform. At the same time, Senator Bam Aquino returns to head the Committee on Basic Education, highlighting their focus on core social development issues.
Robin Padilla to Lead Charter Change Discussions
Actor-turned-lawmaker Senator Robin Padilla continues to play a key role in constitutional reform, retaining chairmanship of the Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes. He will also lead the Cultural Communities and Muslim Affairs and Public Information, and Mass Media committees.
Imee Marcos, Pia Cayetano Handle Strategic Sectors
Senator Imee Marcos will chair three influential committees: Foreign Relations, Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development, and Cooperatives. Meanwhile, Senator Pia Cayetano will lead the Committees on Energy, Ways and Means, and the Sustainable Development Goals, Innovation and Futures Thinking, giving her strong influence over fiscal policy and future-oriented planning.
Villar Siblings Take Environment and Infrastructure
Senator Camille Villar will chair the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, while her brother, Senator Mark Villar, will take charge of the Committee on Public Works, both pivotal roles in national development and disaster resilience.
Tulfo Brothers, Go, and Gatchalian Assume Key Roles
Senator Raffy Tulfo will chair the Migrant Workers and Public Services committees, continuing his advocacy for labor rights. Senator Erwin Tulfo leads the Games and Amusement and Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development. Senator Bong Go retains his health-related assignments as head of the Health and Demography, Youth, and Sports committees. Senator Win Gatchalian will oversee the crucial Finance Committee, placing him at the helm of budget discussions.
Ejercito, Estrada, and Dela Rosa in Security and Local Affairs
Senator JV Ejercito returns to head Local Government and Tourism, while Senator Jinggoy Estrada will chair the Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation. Senator Bato dela Rosa remains at the forefront of law enforcement policy as chair of the Public Order and Dangerous Drugs Committee.
These assignments are expected to shape the direction of legislation in the coming years, with a mix of experienced lawmakers and new voices leading various policy areas.