In a vibrant show of support, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. rallied his fellow Ilocanos to endorse the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas Senate slate during a proclamation rally in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. The event, held on February 11, 2025, marked the beginning of the campaign for the upcoming May 12 elections. Marcos, standing alongside the 12 candidates, emphasized their proven track records and dedication to public service.
Marcos highlighted the uniqueness of the Alyansa candidates, distinguishing them from other political parties struggling to select their members. He proudly endorsed former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, Senators Francis Tolentino, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, and Imee Marcos, as well as former Senators Panfilo Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, and Representatives Erwin Tulfo and Camille Villar. He praised their integrity, noting their absence from controversial policies like Oplan Tokhang and their refusal to exploit the Covid-19 crisis for personal gain.
The President also commended the candidates’ firm stance against China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea. He assured the crowd that, once elected, these candidates would steer clear of past controversies and focus on advancing the nation’s interests. The Alyansa coalition, comprising major political parties such as Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, Nationalist People’s Coalition, Nacionalista Party, and National Unity Party, aims to be a formidable force in the Senate.