IN a powerful display of unity and shared purpose, the nation’s top political leaders convened on Monday night at the Aguado residence in Malacañang to lay out a strategic plan for the May 2025 midterm elections.
Under the leadership and guidance of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., the meeting marked the first gathering of key leaders from the country’s major political parties, now united under the banner of “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
This partnership, spearheaded by Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the political party headed by President Marcos, brings together a formidable alliance, including Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), the Nacionalista Party (NP), and the National Unity Party (NUP).
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, president of the ruling Lakas-CMD, led the discussions with a clear focus on fostering unity, preventing internal conflicts, and ensuring that the coalition’s strategy for the May 2025 polls is both cohesive and effective.
“This is more than just a strategic planning session; it is a declaration of our shared commitment to the Filipino people,” Speaker Romualdez declared. “Our unity is our strength, and today we solidify that bond to ensure that our vision for a better Philippines will continue to be realized. We are here not only to support the programs and projects of President Marcos but also to help realize his vision of unity towards lasting peace and prosperity for all.”
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House emphasized the need to prevent internal conflicts and maintain incumbents’ equity, ensuring each party’s interests are protected as they work together in pursuit of this shared vision.
“We are not just allies in name. We are united by a shared purpose—to serve our nation with integrity, strength, and unwavering resolve,” Speaker Romualdez said. “The challenges we face require a coalition that is not only strong but also harmonious. That’s what we are building here today.”
From the PFP, the delegation during the meeting included Special Assistant to the President Antonio “Anton” Lagdameo Jr., Executive Vice President; South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo S. Tamayo, president; retired Gen. Thompson P. Lantion, secretary general; and Atty. George S. Briones, legal counsel.
Also present were Lakas-CMD stalwarts Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr.; House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, who also serves as the party’s executive vice president; Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose “Joboy” Aquino II, the party’s secretary general; and Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David “Jay-jay” Suarez, who serves as treasurer.
Representing the NP were Sen. Mark Villar, Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron, and Misamis Oriental 2nd District Rep. Yevgeny “Bambi” Emano.
NPC was represented by its chairman, former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, along with its secretary general, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office head Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza.
Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. Luis Raymund “L-Ray” Villafuerte, NUP president, and Bataan 2nd District Rep. Albert Raymond Garcia, NUP secretary general, also took part in the meeting.
As the meeting concluded, the leaders reiterated their commitment to the alliance, recognizing that their unity is essential for navigating the challenges ahead and realizing the administration’s vision.
“This is just the beginning,” Speaker Romualdez declared. “As we move forward, we will continue to strengthen our coalition, refine our strategies, and ensure that our vision for a new Philippines is realized in every corner of the nation.”
