The Senate formally opened the first regular session of the 20th Congress on Monday morning, just hours before President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is set to deliver his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero initiated the session by pounding the gavel shortly after 10 a.m., with 23 other senators present to witness the proceedings.
Senator Bam Aquino led the opening prayer, seeking strength and unity among the senators to effectively serve the country.
Following the prayer, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) resolution proclaiming the 12 winning senatorial candidates for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections was read.
The newly elected senators—Bong Go, Bam Aquino, Ronald Dela Rosa, Erwin Tulfo, Francis Pangilinan, Rodante Marcoleta, Ping Lacson, Tito Sotto, Pia Cayetano, Camille Villar, Lito Lapid, and Imee Marcos—then took their oath of office, marking the beginning of their terms in the Senate.Bookmark messageCopy message