President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received commendations from House of Representatives leaders for his speech at the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas campaign kickoff in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. The speech, delivered on February 11, 2025, was praised for its strong advocacy for Filipino interests and a focus on issue-based politics.
Marcos endorsed a slate of senatorial candidates, highlighting their proven track records in public service. He also warned against other candidates he accused of supporting pro-China policies, enabling the spread of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), and being linked to the controversial drug war under the Duterte administration.
Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V from La Union praised Marcos for his firm stance on national sovereignty. Ortega appreciated the President’s assertion that the Philippines should not be controlled by foreign powers, aligning with his own recent statements against pro-China advocates.
Manila Representative Ernix Dionisio, the House Assistant Majority Leader, was moved by Marcos’ speech, noting the clear positions taken by the alliance’s candidates on key issues. Dionisio emphasized the importance of electing leaders who prioritize national interests.
The Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas slate includes notable figures such as former interior secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, Senators Francis Tolentino, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, and Imee Marcos, former senators Panfilo Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, former Senate president Vicente Sotto III, and representatives Erwin Tulfo and Camille Villar.
During a press conference in Iloilo City, Sotto defended Marcos’ comments, stating they were factual expressions of his perspective and not intended to smear opponents. Tulfo supported this view, emphasizing that their campaign would focus on their achievements rather than negative attacks. Abalos clarified that Marcos’ remarks were meant to affirm the candidates’ dedication to Philippine sovereignty, not to criticize others negatively.