LP members to align with PDP-Laban

Speaking in front of the members of the press at the Matina Enclaves, Davao City, presumptive president-elect Rodrigo Duterte bares his programs and policies that primarily focus on peace and order and on efficient government service. PHOTO BY BARRY OHAYLAN / CONTRIBUTOR

ILOILO CITY, Philippines—The Liberal Party (LP) will be joining the administration coalition, according to two LP congressmen from Western Visayas.

Iloilo City Rep. Jerry Trenas and Capiz Representative-elect Emmanuel Billones said they were among around 80 LP congressmen who attended a meeting led by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. at the Batasang Pambasan Monday morning where the move was agreed upon.

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The coalition with the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) is expected to be formalized within the week, according to Billones.

Several LP members, including those belonging to the Visayas bloc, earlier declared support for the coalition.

READ: LP backs Alvarez’s Speaker bid

Trenas and Billones said they will remain with the LP but party members were given a free hand whether or not they will join the PDP-Laban. RAM/rga