Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri voiced his support for Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III’s potential return as Senate President, expressing dissatisfaction with the current leadership of Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero.
In an interview shared by his office, Zubiri said he prefers a Senate leader who respects the institution’s traditions and avoids an authoritarian leadership style.
“I want a Senate leader who protects our traditions—not someone dictatorial. I’m not happy with the current leadership, and I’m open to supporting other candidates for the role,” Zubiri said.
He also revealed that a “veteran bloc” is forming in the upcoming 20th Congress, including himself, Sotto, and Senators Loren Legarda and Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. Zubiri, once Sotto’s majority leader, affirmed his loyalty to him.
“We’re initially backing Senator Sotto because I served as his majority leader. I remain loyal to him,” he stated.
Zubiri hopes that the Senate will choose a new leader committed to preserving its independence, regardless of tensions with the House of Representatives or Speaker Martin Romualdez.
He cautioned against selecting a Senate President merely for opposing the House leader, emphasizing that the role is about steady, principled leadership, not partisanship.
Reflecting on his own tenure, Zubiri described his leadership as consultative, fostering open dialogue through regular caucuses rather than public confrontations.
Meanwhile, Escudero, who became Senate President in May 2024 after Zubiri stepped down, has yet to comment on Zubiri’s criticisms. Escudero has maintained that all issues, including the impeachment of VP Sara Duterte, should be discussed transparently in plenary sessions.