By GISELLE OMBAY, GMA Integrated News
The Senate on Monday morning formally opened the first regular session of the 20th Congress, hours before President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero” pounded the gavel in the Senate session hall shortly past 10 a.m., as witnessed by 23 other senators present.
Senator Bam Aquino led the opening prayer, asking the Lord for strength and unity among senators to serve the country.
Then, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) resolution proclaiming the 12 winning senatorial candidates for the 2025 midterm elections was read.
Senators Bong Go, Bam Aquino, Ronald Dela Rosa, Erwin Tulfo, Francis Pangilinan, Rodante Marcoleta, Ping Lacson, Tito Sotto, Pia Cayetano, Camille Villar, Lito Lapid, and Imee Marcos took their oath of office thereafter.
Meanwhile, there was no red carpet rolled out this time at the Senate amid the recent weather systems affecting the country.
Aside from the spouses, relatives, and staff of the senators, several Cabinet members and foreign dignitaries were also present during the opening of the session.
On Monday afternoon, lawmakers both in the Senate and House of Representatives will hold a joint session at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City to hear Marcos’ SONA. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
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