Metro Manila, Philippines – Senator Win Gatchalian has been elected as the new Senate President during Wednesday’s special session, replacing Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.
Gatchalian previously assumed the role of acting Senate President on June 3, sparking a weeks-long leadership standoff with Cayetano, who challenged the legitimacy of that session before the Supreme Court.
Shortly before the special session convened, Cayetano conceded the race, stating that he had come to terms with the election of a new chamber leader and would not stand in the way of the vote.
Meanwhile, veteran lawmaker Tito Sotto was elected as the new Senate President Pro Tempore, filling the post vacated by Gatchalian.
Thirteen senators were present during Wednesday’s special session to form a quorum, consisting primarily of Gatchalian’s allies.
Senator Joel Villanueva—previously allied with the Cayetano bloc—was also present, providing the decisive crossover vote to finalize the leadership transition.
