Pasay city: Senator Francis Escudero retained his position as Senate President after securing 19 votes during the opening of the 20th Congress at the Senate plenary in Pasay City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Senate's inaugural session also saw the reelection of key leaders. Senator Jinggoy Estrada was reaffirmed as Senate President Pro Tempore, while Senator Joel Villanueva was elected as Senate Majority Leader and chairperson of the Committee on Rules. Former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, returning to the upper chamber after a fresh electoral mandate, was chosen as Senate Minority Leader with five votes. He will lead a minority bloc consisting of Senators Panfilo Lacson, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Loren Legarda, and Risa Hontiveros.

The session included the oath-taking of newly elected senators and the adoption of ceremonial resolutions, setting the stage for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City. In his address to colleagues and dignitaries, Escudero emphasized unity, responsibility, and results, stating, "This Senate is not mine alone to lead. The direction we will take will never be determined by a single hand, much less my hand, but by twenty-four heads-each with a mandate, each with a mind, each with a voice that matters."

Escudero also urged lawmakers to transcend partisanship and focus on legislation based on public service and national interest. "Let us carry out this collective duty with humility, integrity, and purpose as we begin this new chapter of the Senate together," he said, concluding his speech with a call to action: "Magtrabaho tayo (Let's work)!"

In a separate statement, Villanueva expressed gratitude for his election as Majority Leader, pledging to enhance the legislative achievements of the previous Congress. "I am sincerely thankful to my colleagues for placing their trust in me to carry out this important responsibility," he stated, highlighting his commitment to more productive and inclusive policymaking under Escudero's leadership.

Additionally, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who nominated Estrada for reelection as Senate President Pro Tempore, commended Estrada's experience and leadership, describing him as 'a man of conviction' who remains committed to advocating for the underprivileged.