At least 16 senators have already expressed their support for Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero to remain as Senate President for the 20th Congress, according to Senator JV Ejercito.
In a press conference held Tuesday, Ejercito confirmed that a resolution was circulated during Congress’ recent break, gaining signatures from 15 to 16 senators. He said he signed the resolution himself, citing both his role in Senate leadership and a sense of loyalty to Escudero.
“Yes, because first of all, I’m part of the leadership, being the deputy majority leader at present. As a courtesy and respect to Senate President Escudero, I have to stick it up with him,” Ejercito said.
While expressing support for Escudero, Ejercito admitted feeling conflicted due to his longstanding friendship and party affiliation with former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, a fellow member of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC).
Ejercito noted that supporting Escudero could help secure his current position as deputy majority leader, adding that if the number of supportive senators reaches 18, Escudero could form a Senate supermajority.
Among those reportedly backing Escudero are the Cayetano, Villar, and Tulfo siblings, along with Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, Ejercito’s brother. Estrada had earlier confirmed the resolution’s circulation and the growing support for Escudero’s leadership.
The 20th Congress is set to open its first regular session on July 28, just before President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
When asked about the possibility of opposition senators such as Bam Aquino and Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan joining the pro-Escudero bloc, Ejercito said party lines are often crossed in the Senate.
“In the Senate, political party doesn’t always mean a lot. On issues of national interest, we often become color blind,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Senator Tito Sotto addressed criticisms of his leadership style, saying, “Too strict? Guilty as charged.” He emphasized that he was raised by statesmen who valued rules and decorum.
Senator Migz Zubiri, citing private conversations, revealed some colleagues were hesitant to support Sotto or Senator Ping Lacson due to concerns over their strict leadership style. Still, Sotto maintained he would respect the will of the majority, stating, “I leave it up to my colleagues.”