Alyansa is Pro-Pilipinas – Benhur Abalos
“Ang Alyansa ay Pro-Pilipinas,” declares Abalos during a press conference.
MANILA, Philippines – The Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas Senate slate is “Pro-Pilipinas,” declared senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos Jr.
With just a week left before Filipinos head to the polls, Abalos reiterated that the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas is united in opposing foreign interference and in championing policies that directly benefit Filipino families.
“Importante ang sovereignty, ang soberenya ng Pilipinas,” he said.
“Walang sinumang dayuhan ang pwedeng makialam sa eleksyon dito.”
(Sovereignty is important — the sovereignty of the Philippines. No foreigner should be allowed to interfere in our elections.)
“Piliin natin ang may puso, may alam, at may paninindigan. Tandaan n’yo: ang Alyansa ay Pro-Pilipinas,” Abalos stressed.
He echoed alarms over alleged growing attempts to influence the country’s political process, warning that any foreign meddling is a form of control.
Abalos joins his supporters in Pampanga, where he received the endorsement of all Central Luzon governors.
Abalos urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and to elect leaders who will stand firmly for the nation’s independence.
“Ang Pilipinas ay para sa Pilipino. Walang sinumang dayuhan ang pwedeng makialam sa eleksyon dito. Once mangyari ‘yon it is a form of control. Gusto nila maimpluwensyahan at kontrolin ang ating bansa. Walang sinumang Pilipino ang dapat pumayag dito,” Abalos said.
To address this security concern in the long term, Abalos also called for greater investment in maritime security, particularly in under-resourced areas like the southern seaboards and the West Philippine Sea.
Citing his experience as DILG secretary, he said increased funding for the Coast Guard and local maritime forces is critical to stop smuggling, respond to disasters, and defend Philippine waters.
Abalos also stressed the significance of protecting international sea lanes, aligning with the Law of the Sea.
“Let’s ensure that this remains in the interest of our Republic, of our people,” he said, echoing the sentiments of fellow Alyansa candidate former senator Panfilo Lacson.
Alongside his defense agenda, Abalos laid out a reform platform focused on easing the cost of living and empowering local communities.
He vowed to push for the removal of VAT on electricity.
Abalos assures that the Alyansa Para sa Pagbabago slate is pro-Pilipinas
He also called for amending the Rice Tariffication Law to allow the National Food Authority to buy more palay from local farmers and sell them to the public.
On housing, Abalos said he would expand Mandaluyong’s successful socialized housing program to provide dignified shelter for low-income families nationwide.
He also proposed using the Special Education Fund to support students up to college level and committed to expanding feeding and mental health programs in public schools.
“Ang batas ay dapat maramdaman, hindi lang mabasa,” Abalos said.
In addition, Abalos urged Filipinos to be discerning voters and reminded the public of the Senate’s crucial role in shaping the nation’s direction.
While the President serves as the chief architect of foreign policy, Abalos stressed that the Senate plays an equally vital role through the ratification of treaties.
“The President is always the chief architect of foreign policy,” Abalos said. “But this is a shared responsibility with the Senate, because it is the Senate that ratifies treaties.”
He warned of the risks of electing lawmakers unprepared to navigate issues as complex and sensitive as the West Philippine Sea.
“Paano kung ‘di mo alam ang gagawin mo? Paano if you’re not well-versed with international politics? Baka mapasubo tayo — not only as a family, but as a country,” he said.
“Kaya nga importante sa mga nakikinig ngayon, pakinggan niyong maigi ang plataporma ng Alyansa. Lahat po ito ay Pro-Philippines, tandaan niyo po ‘yan— as long as we are here.” Abalos emphasized.
