The Commission on Elections (Comelec) officially proclaimed the 12 newly elected senators for Eleksyon 2025 at the Manila Hotel Saturday—marking the end of a gripping midterm race and the dawn of a youth-driven political era.
The event, attended by families and supporters, saw 11 of the 12 senators-elect walk proudly on stage to receive their official certificates of proclamation. One notable absence was Senator-elect Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, who missed the event to attend his daughter’s graduation in the United States.
Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia, presiding over the proclamation, delivered a spirited speech that did more than recount numbers—it recognized a transformative moment in Philippine democracy.
“This election wasn’t just about candidates. It was about consciousness,” Garcia declared. “The youth—the so-called quiet generation—roared at the polls.”
Garcia emphasized that voter turnout reached historic highs, thanks in large part to the decisive participation of Millennials and Gen Z voters. Far from being politically disengaged, he said, the country’s younger citizens showed up in droves to shape the nation’s future.
“They are no longer watching history from the sidelines,” Garcia added. “They are writing it—ballot by ballot.”
The big winners
Leading the senatorial race is reelectionist Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who secured a commanding 27.1 million votes, the highest in this year’s polls. Following closely is former Senator Bam Aquino, staging a strong political comeback with nearly 21 million votes.
The rest of the Magic 12 is a mix of seasoned lawmakers and returning political figures:
- Christopher “Bong” Go – 27,121,073 votes
- Bam Aquino – 20,971,899
- Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa – 20,773,946
- Erwin Tulfo – 17,118,881
- Kiko Pangilinan – 15,343,229
- Rodante Marcoleta – 15,250,723
- Ping Lacson – 15,106,111
- Tito Sotto III – 14,832,996
- Pia Cayetano – 14,573,430
- Camille Villar – 13,651,274
- Lito Lapid – 13,394,102
- Imee Marcos – 13,339,227
Their victory sets the stage for a 20th Congress poised to wrestle with national recovery, economic growth, and digital transformation—all under the watchful eyes of an electorate that has clearly evolved.
A changing political landscape
More than just a roll call of victors, this election has drawn a line in the sand. The new Senate is not just a collection of familiar names—it’s a reflection of a shifting political climate, one where public accountability and youth activism are becoming dominant forces.
Garcia closed his speech with a vision that echoed the sentiments of millions of first-time voters:
“With their votes, the youth are saying: We are here. We care. And we will shape what comes next.”
As Eleksyon 2025 fades into the rearview, one thing is clear—Filipino democracy is not just alive; it’s being redefined by a generation that’s ready to lead.