In what is seen as a rare display of unity and shared purpose, stalwarts of the Philippines’ leading political blocs sat down to draw up a common strategic plan for the May 2025 midterm elections.
Speaker Martin Romualdez, president of the ruling Lakas-CMD, told participants that they must focus on fostering unity, preventing internal conflicts, and ensuring that the coalition’s strategy for the fast-approaching polls ensures victory.
The leaders’ meeting took place Monday night at the Aguado residence in Malacañang.
“This is more than just a strategic planning session; it is a declaration of our shared commitment to the Filipino people,” Romualdez said.
“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,” he added.
Romualdez noted that the key to success lies in staving off infighting by ensuring that the interests of all alliance members are given adequate protection.
“We are not just allies in name. We are united by a shared purpose—to serve our nation with integrity, strength, and unwavering resolve. The challenges we face require a coalition that is not only strong but also harmonious. That’s what we are building here today,” the Speaker said as he sought to bridge traditional political divisions.
At the meeting were Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Executive Vice President; South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo S. Tamayo, president; retired Gen. Thompson Lantion, secretary general; and George Briones, legal counsel, representing President Marcos’ Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).
Also present were Lakas-CMD stalwarts Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr.; House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe, who also serves as the party’s executive vice president; Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose Aquino II, the party’s secretary general; and Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David Suarez, who serves as its treasurer.
Representing the Nationalista Party were Sen. Mark Villar, Iloilo 4th District Rep. Ferjenel Biron, and Misamis Oriental 2nd District Rep. Yevgeny Emano.
The Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) was represented by its chairman, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, along with its secretary general, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office head Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza.
Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte, National Unity Party (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. 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,” Romualdez said.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated. Originally posted with the headline “Romualdez convenes first meeting of ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ alliance.”
