Metro Manila, Philippines – Senator Alan Peter Cayetano said on Wednesday, June 17, that he will accept the election of a new Senate President, speaking just before the upper chamber is set to convene its special session.
“After speaking with Sen. Joel Villanueva, it appears our colleagues on the other side will soon have the numbers to elect a new Senate President. I will not stand in the way of that vote,” Cayetano said.
The statement comes amid intense speculation that Villanueva may join the bloc of acting Senate President Win Gatchalian. Cayetano and his allies previously petitioned the Supreme Court to void the contentious June 3 session that saw Gatchalian’s election.
Notably, Villanueva and Senator Mark Villar were not included as petitioners in that filing.
“No leadership in a democracy is ever permanent; every office we hold is a loan, never a possession. To whoever this chamber lawfully elects, I extend my congratulations and my cooperation in advance,” Cayetano added.
The lawmaker had earlier stated that he would concede his position if the new majority, led by Gatchalian, could secure the 13 votes needed to officially elect a permanent chamber leader.
Senator Chiz Escudero made a surprise appearance during the June 3 session to join the Gatchalian bloc, bringing their current majority count to 12.
The Senate is convening its special session today, June 17, following a proclamation issued by President Marcos on Monday.
