Excitement in the Senate as New Senators Take Office
MANILA, Philippines – The excitement in the Senate is palpable, not only among the new senators but also those returning to the chamber. The feeling of stepping into the Senate brings a fresh wave of enthusiasm and anticipation.
“It’s a sweet return, happy and exciting return,” said returning Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, expressing his joy as he resumed his Senate duties. This excitement in the Senate is shared by many as the new Congress prepares to open.
Pangilinan previously served from 2016 to 2022. After choosing not to seek reelection, he ran for vice president in 2022 but lost to Vice President Sara Duterte. Despite this, he secured fifth place in the May senatorial elections, which he described as a “surprise win” after a tough, bruising campaign.
New Faces and Familiar Names
Alongside Pangilinan, newly elected senators Panfilo Lacson, Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Rodante Marcoleta, and Camille Villar gathered for a Senate photo opportunity. Meanwhile, neophyte senator Erwin Tulfo was scheduled for the orientation program designed for first-timers.
Although Tulfo has legislative experience representing the ACT-CIS partylist in the House of Representatives, he admitted that the Senate offers a broader, nationwide scope. “Well, they said, my brother said, Raffy said, it’s just like Congress… Pero syempre this is a much bigger scope, this is nationwide. So, of course, excited and I really want to get going,” he noted eagerly.
Senate Veterans and New Challenges
Tulfo will join his older brother, incumbent Senator Raffy Tulfo, in the 20th Congress opening on July 28. Meanwhile, Marcoleta used the chance to check out his assigned Senate room amid the busy preparations.
“Hindi ko alam kung saan ako dinala e,” Marcoleta said about the room assignment. When asked about the impeachment proceedings involving Vice President Sara Duterte, Marcoleta chose to remain cautious, stating, “Hayaan mo na yung magagaling (Just let the experts handle it).” He also gave a brief “secret” reply when questioned about the legality of the impeachment court’s recent order regarding the Articles of Impeachment.
Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, a longtime Senate member, appeared the most relaxed among the group. “Been there, done that. Same same lang,” he said, adding, “I’m looking forward to trying to get back to the old feel of the Senate.”
More importantly, Sotto emphasized the need to protect the Senate’s integrity and reputation. “Yan ang mahalaga para ang tiwala ng ating mga kababayan hindi mawawala,” he said, underscoring that maintaining public trust is crucial.
Looking Ahead to the New Congress
All senators elected in May will officially assume office on June 30, marking the start of a new chapter in the Senate’s history. The shared excitement in the Senate signals a renewed commitment to governance and public service.
For more news and updates on excitement in the Senate, visit Filipinokami.com.