MANILA, Philippines — Former senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan have been officially proclaimed winners of the recent Philippine Senate elections, marking their return to office.

The announcement was made on Saturday, May 17, following a midterm election held on May 12, which saw a notable voter turnout.

Aquino and Pangilinan, running under the united "KiBam" coalition, secured second and fifth places, respectively, surprising political analysts who had anticipated a strong showing from candidates aligned with the current administration led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former Vice President Sara Duterte.

Aquino acknowledged the remarkable shift in voter sentiment, highlighting the grassroots efforts of young volunteers who campaigned actively through social media and door-to-door outreach.

In his acceptance speech, he committed to pursuing reforms in education, job availability, and general welfare for Filipinos.

He stated, "The mandate you have given me will not be wasted...

We will ensure reforms in education, the availability of jobs, and the upliftment of Filipinos.

We will work on these every single day."

Pangilinan, who was attending his daughter's graduation in the United States during the proclamation ceremony, sent a representative to deliver his statement.

He expressed the need to tackle pressing issues such as rising prices, hunger, and societal divisions.

He remarked that voters had chosen a direction focused on compassion, unity, and proactive solutions, stating, "I return to the Senate not only carrying promises, but with the purpose to work, to serve, and to stand up for every Filipino who dreams of a better and more prosperous future."

In the recent elections, Bam Aquino received over 20.97 million votes, while Kiko Pangilinan garnered approximately 13.34 million, placing them firmly within the influential upper half of the Senate's 12-member roster.

Aquino's Senate campaign follows a previous unsuccessful bid in 2019, when he finished in 14th place amidst a political landscape dominated by the Duterte administration.

Pangilinan previously stepped aside from a reelection possibility in 2022 to serve as running mate to Leni Robredo, albeit unsuccessfully.

The election results reflect a shift in political dynamics, as many had forecasted a consolidation of power among candidates backed by Marcos and Duterte.

Instead, Aquino and Pangilinan positioned themselves as independent options emphasizing substantial policy issues, with Aquino focusing on education and employment and Pangilinan addressing food security.

Now returning to a Senate set to address significant issues, including an impending impeachment trial against former President Duterte, Aquino and Pangilinan will join Senator Risa Hontiveros in an environment lacking a dominant voting bloc.

The newly configured Senate includes only six administration-aligned senators within the Magic 12, with the broader picture indicating that just nine votes could potentially influence the outcome of Duterte's trial once the 20th Congress convenes.

Aquino has reiterated the importance of unity within the Senate to tackle the pressing challenges facing the country, aspiring to foster a collaborative atmosphere for legislative solutions.