SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero expressed optimism about collaborating with the minority bloc led by Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III as the 20th Congress began its sessions.
“I look forward to working with them as I said yesterday and engaging them with respect to the laws that we will be passing, the issues that we will be confronting,” Escudero said on Tuesday.
Escudero assured fair treatment of all senators regardless of seniority or political alignment.
“As Senate President, I will treat every member equally—whether from the majority or minority, whether veteran or newcomer,” he added.
The majority bloc, composed of 19 senators who elected Escudero as Senate President on Monday, is led by Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Rules.
Meanwhile, the minority bloc, headed by Sotto, includes Senators Risa Hontiveros, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda, and Juan Miguel Zubiri.
Escudero cited Sotto’s extensive experience as a former Senate President, majority leader, and long-time legislator, expressing confidence in the minority’s constructive participation.
“I will take Senator Sotto at his word that he will work with the majority and his colleagues in the Senate,” he said.
MINORITY BLOC HOLDS FIRST CAUCUS
On Tuesday, the minority bloc held its first caucus, with Sotto vowing regular meetings to ensure a unified stance on key national issues.
“As the Minority Bloc, we’ll meet regularly to make sure our stand is clear, our principles are firm, and our work is focused on protecting the public interest,” Sotto said.
Escudero also announced plans to finalize the reorganization of Senate committees within the week, including the Commission on Appointments and the Senate Electoral Tribunal.