SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has asserted that he will remain as Senate President until the start of the next Congress unless the Senate majority votes to replace him.
In a Kapihan sa Senado forum on Thursday, Escudero clarified the issue of potential leadership changes following the recent midterm elections.
“Ultimately, it is the Senate majority that will decide whether I stay or someone else takes the seat of Senate president,” Escudero stated.
He explained that according to Senate rules, the current Senate president continues in office unless a majority vote elects a replacement upon the resumption of Senate sessions.
This clarification comes in response to speculation regarding a potential leadership shift with the return of veteran senators, including former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, to the chamber in July.
Escudero emphasized that any senator, not just Sotto, could assume the Senate presidency if they command the necessary majority support.
“Whoever has the numbers must accept that responsibility and challenge if they have the trust of the majority of the senators,” he said. However, Escudero indicated his current focus remains on completing the legislative agenda of the 19th Congress before considering the implications of the upcoming 20th Congress and any potential leadership changes.
“The elections, all the arguing and noise just ended, and you’re already starting it again,” Escudero remarked.
“Let’s finish this 19th Congress first. We still have two weeks left, and there are many more bills we expect to pass and catch up on.”
