Chiz Escudero elected new Senate President replacing Zubiri

Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero was elected unopposed as the new Senate President, replacing Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.

Zubiri resigned in an emotional privilege speech, citing his fight for the independence of the Senate and mentioning hearing about discussions of his ouster for allegedly not following instructions.

Escudero admitted that he initiated the move to replace Zubiri as Senate President, having started conversations with colleagues last Thursday.

He nodded and confirmed that he personally campaigned for the leadership change, stating he began talking to colleagues because many had misgivings.

Escudero met with House Speaker Martin Romualdez and others last Wednesday at a public gathering, but denied discussing leadership changes.

He finalized the gathering of support from 13 senators on Sunday night.

Escudero vowed to serve the interests of Filipinos, while Zubiri expressed hope that Escudero will uphold the Senate's ideals.