Villar no longer interested in the race for the Senate presidency
Senator Cynthia A. Villar is no longer interested in the race for the presidency in the 24-member Senate in the upcoming 19th Congress.
"Ayaw ko na . I want a simple life," Villar told reporters today (June 1) after her rival Majority Leader Juan Miguel ‘’Migz’’ Zubiri, 53, rejected a term-sharing option
The 71-year-old lady lawmaker expressed hope she could still keep her committee chairmanships so she could continue to push for her advocacies on agriculture and environment. She currently heads the Senate committees on agriculture and environment.
Asked if she is then supporting Zubiri’s bid, Villar answered in the affirmative.
Zubiri is seen as strong contender and has the edge over other rivals such as Senators Francis ‘’Chiz’’ Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian.
A candidate needs the vote of the majority or 13 senators to be elected Senate President.
The Senate chief is next to the Vice President in the line of succession in the event that the President is not able to discharge the duties of his office due to death, disability, or resignation.
The Senate adjourns sine die today. The 18th Congress ends June 30.