Outgoing senators reflect on journeys, friendships, and gratitude

Meanwhile, Revilla, who was seen getting emotional and had to pause from time to time, said he stood that night "with a sense of heaviness"—not from sadness, but from "the weight of all the memories we have weaved together, of all the lessons learned, of the privilege of public service, of gratitude of the mandate entrusted to us, and noble love for this country." 

Binay admitted that she was hesitant to deliver her speech, as she is "not orally fond of goodbyes.” Still, she shared her challenging beginnings in the chamber, enduring criticisms about her appearance and background. 

“Dakilang alalay lang daw ako, pinuna ang kulay ng balat ko, pati ang mga damit ko. Ginawang meme na viral sa social media," she said.

She expressed gratitude for these experiences, noting they "made my skin thicker," which she believes is essential "not so we can remain calloused to the people’s pleas, but so we charge forward, and stay true to what we believe in, even when it’s unpopular, or against the dominant powers."

Seeking forgiveness

In politics, misunderstandings and differing views are inevitable, often leading to debates and public clashes. Yet, amidst these conflicts, a display of humility emerged during the farewell speeches. Several lawmakers, including Pimentel, chose to acknowledge past disagreements and sincerely ask for forgiveness. He said during his term, he "learned a lot from using [his] kokote"—a reference to his popular tagline.

He also explained how he and Senator Risa Hontiveros were "outmaneuvered" during Tuesday night's events. He asked, "For example, saan ako nagkamali, paano niyo kami nautakan. Paano nautakan ng majority ang minority," a statement that sent laughter through the crowd.

"Kung meron man nasaktan sa 13 years ko sa senado…kung meron pong nasaktan sa aking kilos, nasabi, actions, or na file, I beg for your understanding; I pray that with the passage of time, you will find it in your heart to forgive me," he said.

Forging friendships

That evening, it was clear that despite their political differences, the senators shared a special bond. Their heartfelt goodbyes revealed deep friendships that went far beyond their work in government.

Villar articulated this warmth, saying, she is “fortunate” to have worked with all of them.

“In this chamber, you fondly call me 'Mama Bear,' a simple moniker but one I took to heart. To be Mama Bear meant being fiercely protective, genuinely caring, and always dependable. I saw it as a gesture of trust and respect and a reminder to always show up, give my best, and look out for those around me," she concluded.

Poe, on the other hand, offered a warm tribute to Binay, acknowledging their families' "colorful" past but emphasizing that their friendship remained clear and unwavering. (It can be remembered that Poe ran against the Binay patriarch, Jejomar, in the 2016 Presidential elections.)

“To Sen. Nancy, whose family history with mine is colorful, but whose friendship has never been black or white, your sharp wit and radiant smile will surely brighten Makati City Hall. Sen. Nancy, even if she’s seemingly quiet has the most insightful grasp of issues and has all the inside information,” she said.

She also extended her thanks to the "three Mindanao Champions"—Senators Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, Robin Padilla, and Revilla—for their fierce advocacy. While acknowledging differing views with Padilla, she recognized his strong conviction.

Turning to the "two sons of Joseph of San Juan," Jinggoy Estrada and JV Ejercito, Poe described them: Jinggoy as the "classic macho, champion of the masa," and JV as "Erap plus sleek, sharp, yet still fueled by his father’s warmth.” 

“Pero si JV hindi nakakalimot sa kanyang inaanak,” she joked. “Pero ikaw naman,” directing to Estrada, “hindi ka nakakalimot pakainin ako.” 

Finally, she honored Senate President Chiz Escudero, whom she affectionately called her “Kuya" and confidante, for a friendship that transcended politics.

“To Sen. Chiz whom I called many names—often behind his back,” she joked. “Even if he is younger than me, he is my Kuya, my confidante, my call-a-friend for over a decade. You stood by my father when no one else did.”

Binay, for her part, deeply considered her fellow lawmakers as family, stating, "On this journey, like a family, we have gone through the ups and downs…I am glad to have been able to call upon you, I am confident that from here on, you will continue to make a difference wherever you choose to serve."

Meanwhile, Ejercito also gave a heartfelt tribute to his outgoing Senate colleagues. He shared that Villar "is like a mother to us," even jokingly adding that sometimes she's like a "principal." He said that like Sen. Pia Cayetano, Villar has amusing stories that are best shared in private.

Ejercito then described Binay, the incoming mayor of Makati City, as "a walking almanac" due to her extensive knowledge whenever they travel. He also noted that the nickname "Amazing Grace" perfectly suits Poe, thanking her for always laughing at his corny jokes.

Looking forward

At the end of each farewell speech, the outgoing senators also expressed a continued commitment to public service beyond the Senate halls. Revilla, who served for three terms, reaffirmed his dedication, stating that true service is a lifelong vow not bound by term limits. “After all, public service is not attached to the position, it is a commitment and it is a calling that I will always willingly and wholeheartedly answer,” he said.

Poe concluded her speech with a line from her late father: "Hindi pa tapos ang laban."

"Bumagsak na ang tabing sa yugtong ito, ngunit ang kuwento ko ay patuloy na isinusulat. Para sa mga pangako ko sa aking ama, kay FPJ, kay Susan, at sa milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagtiwala at naniwala sa akin. Bukas pa rin ang ating pahina; baka naman may plot twist, abangan ang susunod na kabanata. Sabi nga ni FPJ, ‘Hindi pa tapos ang laban,'" Poe concluded.

Finally, before adjourning the session, Escudero delivered a brief yet meaningful gratitude not just to the senators he worked with, but also to all Senate staff that have helped the upper chamber carry out their duties. 

"Malaking oras ang hiniling na ng bansa at ng ating mga kababayan mula sa miyembro ng senadong ito sa nagdaang tatlong taon, anim na taon, labindalawang taon o higit pa sa iba. Maraming, maraming salamat sa inyo serbisyo," he said.

"I look forward to working with you in government, in the Senate, anywhere in the name and in the service of the Filipino people."

The Senate officially ended its third regular session for the 19th Congress on Wednesday evening. The 20th Congress is set to begin its session on July 28, coinciding with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address.