by: Jade Veronique V. Yap 

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri was officially elected as the new Senate President as the 19th Congress opened on Monday, July 25. 

Twenty senators elected Zubiri as the next Senate President. Senator Joel Villanueva, who started the nomination, described Zubiri as the "most qualified and eligible" for the positions. 

Senator Loren Legarda also nominated Zubiri for Senate President, describing him as a "dynamic and forward-thinking" leader.

Senators Jinggoy Estrada, JV Ejercito, Grace Poe, and Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa all praised Zubiri's ability to bring opposing views together to pass legislation in their individual nominations.

Meanwhile, Senators Risa Hontiveros and Koko Pimentel abstained from voting for Zubiri, making them automatic members of the minority bloc. 

Senator siblings Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano, on the other hand, stated separately that they did not participate in the Zubiri voting and intended to continue to be a member of the chamber's "independent" bloc.

Zubiri previously served as the Senate Majority Floor Leader in the 18th Congress.