MANILA, Philippines — Talks of another dramatic leadership change in the Senate gained momentum Monday, with Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero reportedly being considered for a return as Senate president.
Sources within the Senate revealed that a growing bloc of lawmakers is allegedly preparing to replace Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, barely days after he assumed the chamber’s top post.
One senator, speaking on condition of anonymity, said allies behind the move believe they already have enough votes to push through with the leadership revamp.
The source, however, stopped short of confirming whether Escudero would officially take over the position, noting that multiple names are still being discussed among senators.
Still, another insider familiar with the negotiations claimed Escudero currently has the advantage in ongoing talks within the Senate majority.
According to the source, Escudero’s strongest bargaining chip lies in the possibility that several members of the majority coalition may shift support in his favor if he returns to the Senate presidency.
Escudero initially became Senate president in May 2024 but was later ousted in September 2025, when Sen. Vicente “Tito” Sotto III took over the leadership of the chamber.
His removal came amid allegations that he supposedly slowed down the first impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. He also faced accusations linking him to the controversial flood control project anomalies.
In May this year, Sotto was likewise removed after Cayetano secured the backing of majority senators, including Escudero himself.
Despite his recent rise to the Senate presidency, Cayetano has already faced controversies during his short stint, including fallout from a shooting incident within the Senate premises and the discreet exit of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is facing arrest orders from the ICC.
ia/xf
