The Liberal Party (LP) announced on Friday that former Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan will be running for the Senate in the 2025 elections. Additionally, the party’s sectoral wing, Mamamayang Liberal (ML), will vie for congressional seats, with former Senator Leila de Lima as its lead nominee.
The ML partylist’s second and third nominees are former congressmen Teddy Baguilat and Erin Tañada, as announced at the party’s national assembly in San Juan City. LP also confirmed former Vice President Leni Robredo’s mayoral candidacy in Naga City.
Reflecting on their defeat in 2022, Tañada said the party remained resilient and continued organizing, emphasizing the importance of their fight in the upcoming elections. He highlighted that ML will focus on issues like China’s occupation of the West Philippine Sea, declaring that national sovereignty is non-negotiable.
De Lima, speaking at the event, reaffirmed her commitment to democracy, human rights, and justice. She expressed uncertainty about running again but decided to continue her political efforts after deep reflection and consultation.
Pangilinan, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the nomination, recalling the challenges the LP has faced, including the martial law era and political persecution. He emphasized that despite past setbacks, the party is still strong and committed to addressing issues like poverty, corruption, and abuses of power.
The LP also endorsed the senatorial candidacies of allies Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno and former Senator Bam Aquino.