A leadership change is taking shape within the Senate majority bloc, with discussions underway to eventually install Senator Loren Legarda as Senate president before the 20th Congress ends in 2028.
Majority Leader Senator Migz Zubiri said the idea, which initially surfaced during an informal lounge conversation among majority members, has since developed into a serious internal understanding. He clarified that it is not a formal term-sharing arrangement but an agreement among majority senators that a transition in leadership may occur later in the term of Senate President Vicente Tito Sotto, provided the bloc retains unified support.
Sotto has earlier indicated that Legarda is being considered as his successor. According to Zubiri, Legarda was present when the matter was discussed and later sought confirmation on whether the proposal was made in earnest. Zubiri said there was no objection from those in attendance.
The meeting included several members of the majority bloc, among them Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson and Senators JV Ejercito, Win Gatchalian, Kiko Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and Bam Aquino.
Zubiri said the possible transition could take place after the Senate transfers to its new building in Taguig City, which is expected by late 2027. He also expressed willingness to step down as majority leader to give way to Ejercito, as part of broader internal adjustments within the bloc.
While the majority group is seeking to maintain cohesion, Zubiri noted that efforts are also ongoing to expand its ranks by encouraging more senators to join the bloc.
