Sandro Marcos Emerges as Potential House Majority Leader for 20th Congress

Ilocos Norte Representative Ferdinand Alexander "Sandro" Marcos, the son of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is reportedly a leading candidate for the position of House Majority Leader in the upcoming 20th Congress, according to La Union Representative Paolo Ortega V. In a press conference held on July 17, 2025, Ortega confirmed that Marcos's name has been mentioned among other candidates, highlighting his qualifications for the role.

"The name of [former] Senior Deputy Majority Leader Marcos is being floated around. He is very much qualified," Ortega stated, emphasizing that while Marcos is a strong contender, the selection process will also consider other capable members of the House. Ortega noted that seniority plays a role in leadership decisions, but it is not the sole factor, as qualities such as responsibility, relationship-building, and teamwork are equally important in fostering legislative success.

As a former Senior Deputy Majority Leader during the 19th Congress, Marcos has gained valuable experience in legislative affairs, having worked closely with the previous Speaker Martin Romualdez, who is also related to him. Romualdez, a cousin of President Marcos Jr., led the 19th Congress and established a framework for cooperation among lawmakers, which will be crucial for the incoming Congress.

Ortega's comments reflect a broader sentiment among House members about the importance of collaboration and effective leadership in navigating the legislative process. He remarked, "We need teamwork to shepherd the passage of bills. The wealth of experience is considered, but it is combined with other factors. As you've seen, we neophytes in the 19th Congress were provided enough training ground."

The potential leadership of Marcos raises questions about the influence of political dynasties in the Philippines, as his family's legacy continues to shape the country's political landscape. The discussion surrounding the House Majority Leader position highlights the ongoing evolution of political dynamics within the Philippine legislature, particularly as the nation prepares for the challenges ahead in the 20th Congress.

As the selection process unfolds, it remains to be seen how the interplay of experience, relationships, and political strategies will affect the final decision regarding the House leadership. Observers will be watching closely, as the implications of this leadership choice could significantly impact legislative priorities and governance in the Philippines over the next term.