A new mix of familiar names and fresh faces is entering the Philippine Senate on June 30, 2025. With promises ranging from healthcare reform to green infrastructure and food security, the 12 newly elected senators are expected to shape the country’s legislative direction in the coming years.
But beyond the campaign buzzwords, what exactly can Filipinos expect from them?
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Jobs, Wages, and Livelihood
Employment and economic relief are front and center for several senators. Erwin Tulfo pledged to expand the Sustainable Livelihood Program, not just for the poor but also for middle-class families. He also supports raising the minimum wage and boosting private-sector retirement benefits.
Bam Aquino, returning to the Senate, champions higher wages and easing port red tape to help lower consumer prices. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa joins the call for a wage hike while also backing measures for caregiver welfare and farm support. Lito Lapid, meanwhile, co-authored laws helping MSMEs and pushed for a ?100 wage increase.
Agriculture and Food Security
With rising food prices still a concern, several lawmakers are focusing on agricultural resilience. Kiko Pangilinan placed food security at the heart of his platform, advocating toll exemptions for agricultural transport and increased support for farmers and fisherfolk.
Camille Villar takes a sustainability angle, promoting urban agriculture and green jobs as a way to ensure both food supply and environmental resilience. Dela Rosa, though more known for his law enforcement stance, also backed agricultural support programs.
Healthcare and Social Protection
Bong Go continues his push for healthcare accessibility through expanded Malasakit Centers, especially in disaster-hit areas. He also pledged to remain active in calamity response, bridging aid from various agencies to affected communities.
Inclusive Education and Youth Empowerment
Education also remains a key theme. Aquino is prioritizing programs for K–12 graduates who are not entering college, ensuring they still have opportunities to succeed. Pia Cayetano is expected to continue pushing education reforms she helped legislate, especially for learners with disabilities and marginalized groups. Tito Sotto supports bringing Filipino subjects back to the K-12 curriculum and backs youth-focused policies.
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Green Infrastructure and Environment
Environmental advocacy is gaining ground in the Senate. Imee Marcos campaigned on “green infrastructure,” including rooftop gardens and vertical parks, and is calling for a Magna Carta for Students. Ping Lacson adds to the push with support for renewable energy investments alongside broader economic reforms.
Governance, Culture, and Public Services
Some senators aim to take bold institutional stances. Rodante Marcoleta is once again calling for nationalizing public utilities and pursuing media reform—positions consistent with his past controversial decisions. Sotto brings back the BRAVE program to improve local infrastructure, while also promoting Filipino culture in governance. Lacson adds a progressive edge by endorsing SOGIE rights and increasing support for indigenous communities.
The Bigger Picture
The 2025 election results reflect voter demands for real solutions to inflation, job creation, disaster resilience, and education access. With a mix of returning lawmakers and new voices, this Senate lineup is positioned to deliver dynamic debates and, hopefully, meaningful reforms.
The big question remains: Will these 12 senators rise to the challenge—or will their bold promises fade into the background noise of politics once more?
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