Senator Chiz Escudero appears poised for re-election as Senate President, following a firm commitment of support from the influential “Duter7” bloc.
In a press briefing, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa confirmed that their group had already decided to back Escudero.
“We have already committed,” said Dela Rosa. “I don’t know if the others have signed yet. I’ve already signed.”
The Duter7 bloc includes Senators Dela Rosa, Bong Go, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Robin Padilla, Camille Villar, and Mark Villar.
When asked whether Senator Imee Marcos—previously considered a possible contender for the Senate presidency—was now fully backing Escudero, Dela Rosa said he wasn’t sure if she and Escudero had directly spoken.
“But in principle, we — the Duterte bloc — have discussed it, and we are inclined to support Chiz Escudero as Senate President,” he said.
Dela Rosa also clarified that their support for Escudero is unrelated to the pending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“His stand towards impeachment is not a factor in our decision,” he said.
Escudero is seeking to retain leadership in the upcoming opening of the 20th Congress on July 28, the same day as President Bongbong Marcos’ fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).