MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Win Gatchalian is now officially the Senate president after he mustered 13 votes to be elected to the position.
Gatchalian clinched the chamber's presidency on Wednesday during the Senate special session after Sen. Joel Villanueva attended session.
Villanueva used to be with the group of ousted Senate chief Alan Peter Cayetano, who hinted that he no longer has the numbers to remain in power.
Senate Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri nominated Gatchalian as Senate president as he cited the senator's dedication to his work.
"Siya na po lagi ang nagsasara ng Senado (He's the one who always closes the Senate)," Zubiri said.
Gatchalian was elected through acclamation.