MANILA, Philippines — The 2025 midterm elections have been characterized as a significant contest between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, each presenting their own slate of candidates.

Senate President Francis Escudero articulated that the true victor of these elections is democracy itself.

During a press conference following the elections, Escudero highlighted that both Marcos and Duterte managed to secure at least five seats in the senatorial race.

He noted that the emergence of unexpected winners, including former senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, played a crucial role in preventing either political faction from attaining a decisive majority.

Escudero dismissed the simplistic narrative that framed the elections as a two-sided battle, asserting that the peaceful conduct of the elections signified a triumph for the Filipino populace.

He remarked, "It is not political colors that win if there are successful elections.

The winner is our people.

The winner is our nation.

The winner is democracy."

The elections resulted in an increase in representation for Duterte-affiliated candidates, such as the unexpected victory of Rep. Rodante Marcoleta.

This shift may lead to a larger bloc of senators supporting the Vice President's camp.

When questioned about the implications of a Senate majority that may not be aligned with the President, Escudero expressed optimism that legislators would demonstrate collaboration on public-interest legislation, despite potential delays in the legislative process.

Escudero emphasized the importance of bipartisan support for policy decisions, stating, "Just because you are in opposition does not mean you keep saying no, even if the government’s policy is right.

We’ve outgrown that."

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro acknowledged that genuine opposition should be welcomed, differentiating it from obstructionism.

Castro asserted that true opposition exists to serve public interest, while obstructionists often prioritize self-interest and misinformation, pledging that the administration would confront the dissemination of false information.

However, Escudero indicated that the era of political fighting should yield to a cooperative spirit, urging for common ground among lawmakers despite the polarization reflected in the election results.

He asserted the necessity of collaboration, stating, "Regardless of those labels of being oppositionist or obstructionist, we can find and should find common ground in spite and despite the results of this election."