Senatorial candidate Vicente “Tito” Sotto III said he is open to returning as Senate President in the 20th Congress, provided he secures enough support from his fellow senators.
Sotto previously served as Senate President from May 2018 until the end of his second term in June 2022, during the 18th Congress. A veteran lawmaker, he is now eyeing a political comeback in the 2025 midterm elections.
“If I have the necessary number, I will accept,” Sotto told ABS-CBN when asked if he intends to reclaim the Senate’s top leadership post.
The former Senate leader said that if elected and chosen by his peers, his legislative agenda will focus on strengthening fiscal oversight and ensuring the proper use of government funds. “I will exercise oversight on previous laws authored and introduce new legislation,” he added.
To become Senate President, a senator must secure the support of at least 13 of the chamber’s 24 members. As a continuing body, the Senate allows its leadership to remain until a majority decides otherwise. This means current Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero will retain his position unless another contender garners majority backing in the new Congress.
Sotto’s potential return to power would signal a shift in alliances and power blocs within the chamber, especially amid speculation about the formation of new coalitions after the 2025 elections. Analysts say his long-standing relationships with senators across party lines could give him an advantage in building consensus.
During his previous tenure as Senate President, Sotto was known for steering bipartisan support on key legislation, including the passage of the Universal Health Care Act and the Anti-Terrorism Law. He also led Senate inquiries into major government controversies, emphasizing transparency and accountability.
Sotto is running under the ticket of a broad opposition coalition, banking on his legislative experience and name recognition. His re-entry into the Senate and possible leadership bid is expected to shape the tone of the 20th Congress, particularly in fiscal reforms and checks on executive policies.
