Senator-elect Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan skipped the proclamation of winning senators on Saturday to attend his daughter’s graduation.

Pangilinan and his family are currently in the United States for the college graduation of his daughter, Frankie. He was represented at the proclamation by his sister, Maricel Pangilinan-Arenas.

"On behalf of Senator Kiko, maraming-maraming salamat po (thank you all so much)," Maricel said.

Reading a message from the senator, she said Pangilinan dedicates his win to Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, and vowed to champion efforts to end hunger and poverty.

"Panahon na para kilalanin at suportahan nang lubos ang Mindanao, hindi lang bilang food basket ng bansa kung hindi bilang mahalagang susi sa ating tagumpay laban sa kagutuman at kahirapan (It is time to fully recognize and support Mindanao, not just as the food basket of the country but as a vital key to our victory against hunger and poverty)," Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan, who failed to win his vice presidency stint in 2022, placed fifth in the Senatorial race.