Philippine Senate leadership shift undercuts Sara Duterte

The Philippine Senate elected Sherwin Gatchalian, an ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as Senate president on Wednesday, ousting Alan Peter Cayetano, a key supporter of former president Rodrigo Duterte. The 13-11 vote leaves Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio politically exposed ahead of her impeachment trial, which is expected to begin soon. Gatchalian's victory consolidates Marcos' control over the chamber, potentially influencing the trial's outcome. Cayetano conceded defeat, acknowledging the shift in power.