Away from the storied halls of the Senate, where they are currently working together to address the energy and food crisis facing the nation, Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Erwin Tulfo, and Win Gatchalian found themselves at the Alvarez Park Cafe in Valenzuela City to catch up on their newfound friendship and camaraderie. 

There, Senators Kiko and Erwin reminisced about their days bumping into each other in the hallways of broadcasting giant ABS-CBN, where they spent the better part of the 1990s as news anchor and reporter, respectively. 

“Parang reunion,” Senator Kiko said of him and Senator Erwin finding themselves working together on various legislative agendas. “Iba lang ang setting,” Senator Erwin responded. 

But their time now with the Senate on recess was not spent talking about their past work or their current responsibilities as lawmakers, as they were both welcomed by Senator Win at a floating restaurant to sample some of Valenzuela City’s popular fares. 

Senator Win, who hails from Valenzuela City, quipped that he made sure there were enough seafood and vegetables for their lunch since Senator Kiko has been advocating for agricultural reforms. While Senator Win said he makes sure to exercise daily or do high-interval workouts and Senator Erwin is currently into running and walking, Senator Kiko shared he does brisk walking and takes his usual “siling labuyo (bird’s eye chili)” to help lower his cholesterol levels. 

Right before wrapping up the preview episode, Senator Kiko had a surprise advanced birthday treat for Senator Win, who’s turning 52 on April 6. The “Kikonek: The Kiko Pangilinan Podcast” episode with Senators Erwin and Win will air on Senator Kiko’s YouTube and Spotify channels after Holy Week.  While Senator Kiko is relentlessly pursuing his agricultural reforms and social justice agenda, he also underscored the importance of reaching out to Filipinos by discussing critical issues on social media.