Kabataan Party-list files manifestation of intent to join 2022 polls

Kabataan Party-List Rep. Sarah Elago. Noy Morcoso/Inquirer.net

MANILA, Philippines — Kabataan Party-list, which is a part of the current Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives, has filed its manifestation of intent to join the 2022 elections despite previous disqualification threats.

Kabataan Party-list Rep. Sarah Jane Elago said the manifestation of intent was filed both electronically and via courier before the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

“Sa kabila ng banta ng disqualification, at matinding atake sa Kabataan, hindi kami papipigil na lumahok at manindigan. To fight for health, aid, education, jobs, and justice now is a matter of survival amid the pandemic, and the climate and human rights emergencies,” Elago said in a statement.

“To strengthen our unity and act now against all forms of abuse, discrimination and tyranny is our assertion for a better future,” she added.

Elago also said the youth are at the helm of “amplifying voices” for an effective response and recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

The lawmaker likewise called on those who are turning 18 years old, and those who have not registered yet to register at the Comelec.

“Don’t just get involved, get organized. Actively participate in the campaign for registration and education for voter’s empowerment,” Elago said.

In December 2020, the Makabayan bloc cried foul over plans to disqualify them through the Comelec, claiming that it may be a scheme to cripple the opposition in the next elections.

In March 2021, Gabriela Women’s Partylist, which is also a part of the Makabayan bloc, also filed its own manifestation of intent to join the 2022 national elections “as an act of defiance” to the disqualification case filed against it by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

/MUF