LUCENA CITY – Multi-sectoral group representatives in Laguna formed the provincial chapter of Ikaw Muna (IM) Pilipinas, in support of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso’s presidential bid under the Aksyon Demokratiko political party.
In a statement, Bong Mangahas, IM Pilipinas national convenor and political affairs head, said fishermen and farmers were among the representatives who founded the provincial chapter in Sta. Cruz town on Thursday, October 28.
“They raised the issues of unemployment, the degradation of Laguna Lake and the depressing situation of local farmers in the area,” Mangahas said.
Cedric Mainit, IM Pilipinas Laguna chapter convenor, noted that while many parts of the province have become urbanized and industrialized, “poverty continues to haunt many families, that is sharply aggravated by the impacts of the pandemic.”
Mainit expressed hopes that the local issues will be addressed by Moreno should he be elected president.
Mainit said that most candidates rode on the narrative of being pro-poor, “only to neglect, if not betray them in the end.”
“Because almost all candidates do not have even an iota of understanding, much less real experience of actually being poor, than Isko Moreno,” he stressed.
Mangahas said the movement convenors in Laguna have declared full support to Moreno and his running mate, Dr. Willie Ong.