Atty. Chel Diokno has been officially declared as the first nominee of the Akbayan partylist for the upcoming 2025 elections. Diokno expressed his commitment to advocating for the party’s principles, which focus on defending democracy, promoting the welfare of the Filipino people, and holding corrupt individuals accountable.
Akbayan, led by Senate minority leader Risa Hontiveros, had initially considered Diokno for its senatorial slate. However, after careful deliberation, Diokno and the party chose to pursue the partylist system as the most effective route to address issues of corruption and injustice.
Despite this shift, Diokno emphasized that Akbayan will continue to support opposition senatorial candidates, former Senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino. He also noted that the party aims to secure at least three seats in Congress while backing Hontiveros’ senatorial bets.
Perci Cendaña, former Commissioner for Luzon of the National Youth Commission, will serve as Akbayan’s second nominee.