By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. attended the signing of an alliance between the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) and the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, stating that such a move marks a significant moment for Philippine politics and public service.

The new alliance aims to uplift the lives of the Filipino people under a unified “Bagong Pilipinas.”

“Today marks a significant moment not only for Philippine politics but also for the field of public service, as members of both parties formalize and build an alliance that will propel our country towards the Bagong Pilipinas that we envision,” Marcos said.

“We see that the public wholeheartedly accepts our message of unity. Moreover, when we succeeded in our campaign, we continued to foster unity because we initiated a whole-of-government approach,” he added.

Meanwhile, Marcos emphasized that his government is committed to transformative governance.

“We need to change the way the government is run. We must rethink and consider our governance, and where we are headed. And we have to position the Philippines in a way that will fully leverage the new economy,” he told the members.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Barely a year before the 2025 midterm polls, a veteran political strategist has revealed that former Senator Manny Pacquiao, ex-Senate President Tito Sotto, Speaker Martin Romualdez’s wife, and Tingog Sinirangan party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, and Deputy Speaker Camille Villar-Genuino are most likely among the senatorial bets of a “super coalition” supportive of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.

Veteran political strategist Lito Banayo expressed these possible senatorial contenders after President Marcos said on May 1 that his party, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), is eyeing alliances with other political parties ahead of the midterm polls.

In his May 4 column for The Manila Standard, Banayo named the following as among the possible PBBM bets for the Senate:

Lakas-CMD: Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Romualdez, ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez, and Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez.

Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC): Sotto, Pacquiao and Sen. Lito Lapid.

Nacionalista Party (NP): Villar-Genuino, retired colonel Ariel Querubin, a Medal of Valor awardee; and incumbent senators Imee Marcos and Pia Cayetano.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Several senators have voiced their support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to regional wage boards to assess wage rates in their respective areas.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed solidarity with the president’s call for the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards to conduct a review of minimum wages. He emphasized the importance of the National Wages and Productivity Commission ensuring the compliance of these boards.

Additionally, Zubiri highlighted Senate Bill No. 2534, also known as the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act, which he advocated for.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva welcomed Marcos’ order, noting its significance in providing hope to workers that their earnings will adequately cover their daily expenses. Villanueva referenced Senate Bill No. 2140, aimed at establishing a “living wage” as the benchmark for the minimum daily wage.

Senator Francis Tolentino echoed support for Marcos’ directive, emphasizing its role in helping workers cope with the rising costs of goods and services.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday (10 March 2024) expressed solidarity with the Muslim community as Ramadan begins.

“I stand in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters in the country and around the world as Ramadan commences,” Marcos stated.

The President emphasized that this period is one of spiritual growth, meditation, and the fostering of generosity and concern for others.

“Indeed, this display of faith reflects their profound introspection and shared devotion, strengthening the bonds within their communities through their beliefs,” Marcos remarked.

“It is undeniable that our Muslim brothers and sisters have made significant contributions to our nation’s history and heritage, shaping our beloved motherland into the diverse and united country it is today.”

(el Amigo/MNM)