Amid the confusion in the Senate, many are asking: Who is the real Senate President — Alan Peter Cayetano or Erwin Tulfo?
First of all, it is important to clarify that Erwin Tulfo is not the Senate President. Although he is one of the loudest and most active senators in public affairs, he does not hold the position of head of the Senate.
According to reports, Alan Peter Cayetano was elected Senate President in May 2026, but a major conflict within the chamber emerged as some senators questioned his leadership.
Things got even more chaotic when a new majority installed Sherwin Gatchalian as acting Senate President, while Cayetano insisted that he remains the legitimate Senate President.
To this day, the issue of leadership in the Senate remains at the center of the discussion.
But if we look at it more carefully, the question should not be centered on the names alone. The more important issue is: Who is the real leader capable of uniting the Senate and delivering service to the people?
The Senate should not be a stage for personal ambition. While politicians argue over who should lead, Filipinos are waiting for laws that address rising prices, job shortages, and other pressing national concerns.
In the end, the real Senate President is not just the one with the title.
It is the one capable of bringing order, respect, and direction to the institution.
Because power may be obtained through voting, but true leadership is earned through the trust of the people.
And right now, it is clear that Tulfo is not the Senate President. The real issue is who has enough support and legal basis to lead the Senate amid the current leadership crisis.
