MANILA, Philippines?Former Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. said his presidential platform would center on improving the welfare of peasants, wage earners, and overseas Filipino workers.

In a statement, Ebdane said he would seek the presidency under the Partido ng Manggagawa at Magsasaka (PMM or the Workers and Peasants Party), claiming it was the only political party that represents the interests of the workers and peasants in the Philippines.

?It is a radical departure from the country?s traditional party politics which, for over 100 years, have been dominated by political groups organized and led by the land-owning class or the hacienderos, the traders and later, by big businessmen,? he said.

If he wins the presidency in the May 2010 national elections, Ebdane, a former chief of the Philippine National Police, said he would push for equitable distribution of wealth among Filipinos.

?We will work for increased rights of workers and peasants, adequate government funding for health care and education, and greater participation of unions, NGOs, and POs in all levels of government.?

During his stint at the public works department, Ebdane was a staunch Arroyo ally. His term also saw several corruption scandals.

Ebdane, an Arroyo appointee, surprised political circles when he announced that he would join the already crowded presidential derby despite lack of funds and political machinery.

Ebdane was allied with the administration party, Lakas-CMD-Kampi until he split to join PMM. Lakas-CMD-Kampi officials recently said Ebdane was still welcome to join their group, if he wants to run as senator.

Ebdane has not yet revealed his running mate, saying he will make the announcement next week.