President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed the election of a diverse group of senators, Malacañang said on Wednesday.
The Senate’s new makeup includes administration allies, opposition figures aligned with former President Rodrigo Duterte, and supporters of former Vice President Leni Robredo.
“The President hopes that each of those elected by the people will work for the country and the people, not for their personal interest,” Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a press briefing.
She said the President is focused on achieving unity, regardless of political color, to address the nation’s pressing issues.
"Regardless of political affiliation, the President truly welcomes all leaders coming together to solve the country’s challenges and provide solutions for the Filipino people," she added.
With the diverse group forming half of the Senate, Castro warned of the potential for obstructionists—officials who prioritize their personal interest over public service.
“When we speak of legitimate oppositionists, they fight for the people’s interest, not their own. Obstructionists, on the other hand, do nothing but destroy, seeing nothing good in the government’s work and only advancing their own agenda,” Castro said.
She called on the public to respect the outcome of the election and the democratic choices the people made.
"That’s whom the people voted for and we must respect that. They must work for the country, for the people—not for personal gain or the interests of their friends,” she emphasized. “If they understand that the projects the President is implementing are for the benefit of the people, we hope they will cooperate in addressing the nation’s needs."
Meanwhile, the camp of former President Duterte has framed the election results as a “protest” vote against the Marcos administration.
Former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo described the election outcome as a mandate to restore the principles of strong, people-centered governance that defined Duterte’s presidency.
"The victory of the Duterte-aligned candidates and the defeat of Marcos loyalists are a clear mandate to return to the principles of governance that prioritize the people," Panelo said.
Former presidential spokesman Harry Roque went further, calling Marcos a "lame duck" president due to the disappointing performance of the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial slate.
In response, Castro pointed out that the election results were determined by the people and not by Marcos himself. She emphasized the importance of respecting the will of the electorate.
"The people judged and voted. We must respect the choices of our fellow citizens; this doesn’t reflect anything said about the Dutertes," she stated.
Despite the criticism, Castro noted the Marcos administration continues to enjoy significant public support. She pointed out the latest survey showed a high trust rating for the President.
"The President believes the public still strongly supports the administration. Let’s remember the most recent survey showed a high trust rating for the President," she said.