MANILA, Philippines?The Nationalist People?s Coalition (NPC) said it remains ?in a solid position? to participate in next year?s polls despite the decision of its erstwhile presidential bet Senator Francis Escudero to leave the party.

?Senator Escudero?s decision does not diminish the fact that we remain in a solid position to actively participate in the elections,? NPC spokesman Representative Rex Gatchalian of the 1st District of Valenzuela said Wednesday.

Contrary to expectations he would announce his presidential bid in the 2010 polls, Escudero on Wednesday instead announced that he was resigning from the NPC. At the same time he asked for more time to decide if he would seek the presidency next year.

Gatchalian said the NPC wishes Escudero well as the senator embarks on a new path to pursue his political plans.

This as he emphasized that Senator Loren Legarda would continue with her plans to run for vice president under the banner of the NPC.

Gatchalian said the party is fully supportive of Legarda?s advocacies of sustainable development, climate change adaptation, overseas Filipino workers protection and good governance.

?We will remain steadfast. We believe that our platform of government can lead us to victory even as we look forward towards a strong performance in next year?s elections,? he stressed.

Gatchalian said the party leadership would hold consultations with members to map out the NPC?s political plans for 2010.

?The party leadership wants to assure its members and supporters that we will remain intact and every decision that it will make will benefit not only the party but more importantly for the good of the people,? he said.