Newly elected Senate President Win Gatchalian today took the opportunity to recognize Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero for the decisive act of statesmanship that first set the institutional transition in motion.

It was Escudero’s attendance at the Senate’s session on June 3 that allowed the chamber to finally convene and begin the process that led to today’s outcome.

“Senator Escudero’s decision two weeks ago was the turning point. Without it, today would not have been possible,” Gatchalian said.

Escudero himself described the impasse at the time as “untenable and unacceptable,” and was clear that his decision was not about choosing a faction, a sentiment that Senate President Gatchalian himself echoed.

“Iyon ang klase ng paninindigan na kailangan ng Senado sa oras ng krisis, hindi pagpili ng panig, kundi pagpili ng tungkulin,” Gatchalian said.

In his acceptance remarks today, Gatchalian struck a tone of humility consistent with the spirit Escudero set at the outset.

“Ang tungkuling ito ay pananagutan sa Senado, sa ating Saligang Batas, at sa sambayanang Pilipino,” Gatchalian said.

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Photo by Mark Cayabyab / OS WIN GATCHALIAN