Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri showed his support to Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III to be the Senate president of the 20th Congress in his statement on Monday, 29 July.

Zubiri stood firm with this endorsement of Sotto claiming he is a tried and tested leader like no other, and a man who can strengthen the public trust in this institution, even the most turbulent times.

“His track record speaks for himself. A veteran among veterans,” Zubiri said.

He also cited his previous experience in public service which Zubiri thinks is what makes Sotto competent for the position.

Sotto began his career in public service as vice mayor of Quezon City in 1998 — where he established "Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines."

He began his career in the Senate in 1992, where he won his first term as senator and has been an anti-drug advocate.

"Throughout his 24 years in the Senate, as a testament to his great skill, as a leader and a conscientious builder, he gained the trust of various sets of senators as majority leader, deputy minority leader, and ultimately, Senate president," he emphasized.

He authored the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2012. He was also appointed as chairperson of the Dangerous Drugs Board in 2008 and successfully returned to the Senate in 2010.

Sotto also authored Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council Act, the Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act, the National Athletes, Coach and Trainers Benefits and Incentives Act, the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act, the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, and the Doktor Para sa Bayan Act, among others.

He also highlighted Sotto’s qualities that make him fit for the role, painting him as a dedicated public servant who is consistently punctual. Zubiri recalled that even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sotto remained physically present at the same podium to open Senate sessions.

"Let us elect a leader that helps Senate rise above the noise, and establish again an institution dedicated to nothing but the best interest for Filipino people. Let us elect Senator Vicente C. Sotto III as our Senate President," he said, ending his manifestation.

Sotto lost to Escudero, receiving only 5 votes — one from Escudero himself and the rest from Juan Miguel Zubiri, Loren Legarda, Panfilo Lacson, and Risa Hontiveros. Escudero retained the Senate presidency with 19 votes.

Critics say he gained support due to the tactics of trying to delay VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.

“I’ve been a good soldier of this August body since 1992 and I’m always honored by any position entrusted to me by my esteemed colleagues. So I pledge to perform the duties and responsibilities of being the Minority Leader,” Sotto said.