Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Senator-elect Vicente “Tito” Sotto III both want to become the next Senate President, and they’ve each talked to Senator Bong Go to ask for his support.
Bong Go told reporters on Wednesday that both Chiz and Tito reached out to him separately. That means they each spoke to him on their own, not together. They want Bong Go and his group to help them win the position.
Who’s in Bong Go’s Group?
Bong Go is part of a group of senators that includes:
-
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa
-
Senator Robin Padilla
-
Senator-elect Rodante Marcoleta
These senators are known to be close to former President Rodrigo Duterte, and they plan to vote as one team in choosing the next Senate leader.
Bong Go: We Want What’s Best for the Country
Bong Go said that many other senators are also talking to them, asking for support. But he made it clear:
“We are open to talking with everyone, but our main rule is to do what’s best for the country, for every Filipino, and to keep the Senate independent.”
This means they want a Senate that makes its own decisions and doesn’t just follow orders from others.
Did Chiz and Tito Ask for Support?
Yes, Bong Go said it clearly:
“Yes, both of them have asked for our support.”
He also explained that everyone is still talking, either one-on-one or in small groups.
GMA News tried to get comments from both Chiz and Tito, but they haven’t replied yet.
Will Bong Go’s Group Choose Their Own Candidate?
When asked if their group might support another person or pick their own candidate to run for Senate President, Bong Go said that any senator has the right to run. It means they haven’t made any final decisions yet.
What Does Senator Ping Lacson Say?
Senator-elect Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, who is close to Tito Sotto, said that at least 13 senators want the next Senate President to be:
-
Independent
-
Transparent (open and honest)
-
Competent (capable and good at their job)
He said this is what most senators are saying in private talks.
How Is the Senate President Chosen?
There are 24 senators in total. To become Senate President, a candidate needs at least 13 votes. That’s just over half.
Tito Sotto May Be Coming Back
Tito Sotto used to be the Senate President before. He said that 3 or 4 senators have already asked him to run again and lead the Senate in the 20th Congress (which is the new group of senators after the latest elections).
