Unity, prosperity, and renewal topped the messages of senators for the country and the Filipino people as 2026 begins.
Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III reflected on his return to the Senate—from Senate Minority Leader to once again serving as Senate President, a post he previously held during the 18th Congress. For 2026, Sotto underscored unity, discipline, and faith.
“Let us look ahead with renewed hope and determination. Dalhin natin ang aral ng nakaraan at tapang na harapin ang hamon ng bagong taon nang may pagkakaisa, disiplina at malakas na pananampalataya sa Diyos,” Sotto said.
Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri, meanwhile, wished for prosperity and peace for every Filipino family.
“Sama-sama tayong tumawid sa bagong taon nang may pag-asa at malasakit sa isa’t isa,” he said.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito echoed hopes for economic recovery, saying a stronger economy would mean more businesses, jobs, and lasting peace.
“Sinubok man tayo ng kaliwa’t kanang kontrobersiya, sana huwag po tayong panghinaan ng loob. May pag-asa! At tayo naman ay tuloy-tuloy na magtatrabaho para mas makatarungan at maunlad na Pilipinas!” Ejercito said.
For Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, 2026 should be a time for repentance, renewal, and revival, following what he described as a difficult 2025 for the Senate.
“We can do better… we should repent, but we should be here for our people,” Cayetano said, calling for decisions aligned with God’s will.
Senator Imee Marcos also called for change at the start of the year, stressing that reform should go beyond individuals in government to include the political system itself, to improve the lives of Filipinos and the country’s global image.
The Senate is currently in recess and is set to resume session on January 26.