Makabayan will not choose senatorial candidates from political families

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro (left) and Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas answer questions from the press during a press briefing on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Both lawmakers, part of the Makabayan bloc, gave President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a failing grade for his second year, as significant problems were supposedly left unaddressed. (Gabriel P. Lalu/ INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — The Makabayan Coalition has announced its plan to field a complete senatorial slate in the 2025 elections, which it said will not come from political or influential families.

In a press conference on Thursday, coalition members said they plan to reveal the names of their candidates in the coming days.

READ: ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Castro to run for senator in 2025

“In the 2025 election, Makabayan is ready to help its candidates to run, not just one or two but a whole slate of patriotic and progressive candidates who will promote a comprehensive national-democratic program that will meet the Filipino people’s desire for development, respect for rights, and full national sovereignty,” Liza Maza, co-chairperson of Makabayan Coalition, said in Filipino.

Maza said their candidates are from workers, farmers, women, youth, fishermen, natives, and other sectors deprived of a voice in Congress for a long time.

“Beyond the issue of money and resources, Makabayan and its candidates have unshakable principles, unforgivable track records, and strong support from the masses longing for change,” she added in Filipino.

Earlier, ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro revealed her intent to run for senator in 2025.

Makabayan also said Filipinos need “a true opposition” that will present a real alternative that will lead to change.

“We are ready to face the people to play this role,” their statement read.

“The opposition we need today is a matter of contesting the sitting administration and opposing the existing system ruled by and benefited by a few political dynasties, prominent businessmen, landlords, and imperialists,” it added.

READ: VP Sara as opposition leader? Makabayan asks if she’s anti-corruption

According to former ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio, the Makabayan Coalition has consistently opposed national government programs that negatively affect Filipinos and addressed the people’s needs.

Last July 4, Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas said the coalition aims to provide the people with candidates who do not belong to the camp of either President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or Vice President Sara Duterte.

“We are looking forward to a true opposition; that’s what we lack right now. Our choices are only Marcos or Duterte — that’s not what the Makabayan wants; we are looking for a true opposition.  That’s why we are open to talking with true opposition groups, those that we know will stand for our people and for changing the society,” she said.