On May 11, 2026, Alan Peter Cayetano was elected as the new Senate President, marking the third leadership change in the 20th Congress within a year.
Cayetano, a close ally of the Duterte family, stepped into the role amid significant political turmoil, including the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The senators who voted for Cayetano largely share strong ties with the Duterte administration, with several embroiled in ongoing controversies.
Key Supporters of Cayetano
Among the senators supporting Cayetano is Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, a long-time Duterte ally. Dela Rosa served as the police chief during Duterte's time as mayor and later as head of the Philippine National Police. Currently, he faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court related to his actions during the controversial drug war.
Senator Robin Padilla also backed Cayetano. Padilla’s political rise is closely tied to Duterte, who granted him a pardon, allowing him to run for office after a firearms conviction.
Christopher 'Bong' Go, who served as Duterte's special assistant, is another key supporter. Go has been a consistent figure in Duterte's inner circle.
Senator Imee Marcos, who has maintained strong ties with both Sara Duterte and the Marcos administration, also voted in favor of Cayetano. Her connections with the Duterte family have been reinforced through past campaign endorsements.
Mark and Camille Villar, siblings who have familial ties with both the Duterte and Marcos administrations, showed their support for Cayetano during this leadership change. Their political and business connections have placed them at the center of various controversies.
Loren Legarda and Chiz Escudero, both of whom have had previous associations with the Duterte administration, sided with Cayetano despite their positions in the prior Senate leadership.
Pia Cayetano, Alan's sister, unsurprisingly supported him, further solidifying the familial ties within the Senate.
Lastly, senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, who have also been linked to various political controversies, cast their votes for Cayetano.
Conclusion
Cayetano's election as Senate President highlights the enduring influence of political alliances within the Philippine Senate, particularly those connected to the Duterte legacy. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of these relationships will be critical.