Central Luzon leaders rally behind Abalos’ Senate bid
Benhur Abalos with Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Tarlac Governor Susan Yap, Nueva Ecija Vice Govermor Emmanuel Umali, Pampanga former Governor Baby Pineda amd Guiginto, Bulacan Mayor Boy Cruz and other Central Luzon officials.
MANILA, Philippines – Senatorial candidate and former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. received a major boost to his Senate campaign this week from Central Luzon’s most influential political figures.
With over 7.7 million registered voters across seven provinces, Central Luzon is a vital electoral battleground.
During a gathering of Central Luzon’s top local leaders—including governors, district representatives, and mayors from Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales—Abalos received resounding support for his Senate bid.
Among the most fervent voices was Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane.
“Kung mayroon mang isang nararapat dapat na kandidato na maupo bilang senador, siya yan,” Ebdane said.
“Abogado, propesor, naging Secretary ng DILG, naging Chairman ng MMDA—wala ka nang maipipintas sa kanya.”
(“If there’s one candidate truly deserving to become senator, it’s him,” Ebdane said.
“A lawyer, a professor, a former DILG Secretary, a former MMDA Chairman—there’s nothing you can hold against him.”)
Echoing the sentiment, Governor Reynante Tolentino of Aurora offered his full support.
“In Region 3, let us all support our Senator Abalos.”
Tarlac Governor Susan Yap said Abalos is a true champion of local government units.
“Senator Abalos has always been a friend of Tarlac. Tarlac promises to deliver the votes for you. Not just in Tarlac, I hope the entire Region 3 unites behind Senator Abalos, a true partner of local government units,” she said.
Bulacan Rep. Boy Cruz of Bulacan, speaking on behalf of all municipal mayors of the province, described Abalos “a true ally and companion” for local governments.
“All the mayors of Bulacan are supporting you. We will do everything we can to help you become Number 1,” he said.
Nueva Ecija Vice Governor Emmanuel Umali, who represented Governor Aurelio Umali, likewise pledged the province’s full support, sharing that even before the gathering, Governor Oyie Umali had already committed to Abalos’ campaign.
He underscored Nueva Ecija’s personal connection to Abalos.
“Asahan nyo po Senator, alam po namin ang lalawigan ng Nueva Ecija ay inyong probinsiya din po dahil po sa inyong manugang dun sa bayan ng Aliaga.”
Also extending their support were the local chief executives of Bataan and Pampanga, from governors down to mayors.
In response, Abalos offered his heartfelt thanks to the leaders of Central Luzon.
“Talagang taus-puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa inyo. Si General Ebdane, kasama ko po siya dati noon. He’s always helped me through time. Governor Susan, maraming salamat sa iyo. Sa grupo ng Tarlac, hindi ko kayo makakalimutan. Governor Tolentino, maraming salamat for the whole group for your kind endorsement.”
He also extended his deep gratitude to Bulacan, Bataan, Pampanga, Aurora, Nueva Ecija.
Abalos reiterated his promise to champion legislation that will uplift not only Central Luzon but the entire nation.
He vowed to work for the removal of VAT on electricity and taxes on petroleum products for power generation, push for comprehensive programs for farmers and their families, and champion the welfare of government job order and contract of service workers by providing gratuity pay and incentives.
He emphasized the urgency of amending the Rice Tariffication Law to strengthen the National Food Authority, ensuring fair pricing for both farmers and consumers by allowing it not only to procure palay from local farmers but to sell it to the public.
He also opposed the Supreme Court ruling allowing commercial fishing within the 15-kilometer municipal waters, defending the livelihood of small fisherfolk.
He also pledged to champion amendments to the Local Government Code, empowering local governments to better serve their constituents.
“Ako po ang magiging boses ninyo. Tandaan ninyo yan. Ngayon eleksyon po, magkaisa tayo. I will take care of you,” Abalos concluded.
