Metro Manila, Philippines – Presumptive senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III is set for a comeback not just to the Senate, but possibly as Senate President, confirming that some incumbent lawmakers have approached him about taking the helm.
“I would be lying if I say no. May mga kumakausap sa akin,” Sotto told reporters in an online interview on Friday, May 16.
Asked for a number, Sotto said at least three to four senators have talked to him about the Senate presidency, but he did not provide the names.
“They’re saying that their peers are ready to support me. Sabi ko naman if we have 13 [votes], I will accept,” Sotto said.
Sotto, a veteran of eight Congresses, served as Senate president from 2018 to 2022, covering most of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s term.
Sotto said he has not spoken to incumbent Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero amid the possible leadership challenge. Replacing Escudero would require a majority vote in the chamber.
Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado media forum on Thursday, Escudero acknowledged that Senate leadership ultimately depends on the will of the majority.
“I think the same statement will apply to almost all the senators. Kahit naman sa akin noon bago ko inisip man lang o pinangarap hindi ko nga pinangarap na maging senate president (Even I never dreamed of becoming Senate president)” he said.
“Sino man ang may numero dapat tanggapin niya ‘yong responsibilidad at ‘yong hamon na ‘yon kung nasa kanya ang tiwala ng mas nakararaming senador,” he added.
[Translation: Whoever has the numbers must accept the responsibility and the challenge that comes with the trust of the majority.]
Escudero assumed the Senate presidency in May 2024, succeeding Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri in a controversial leadership shake-up.
