Wazzup Pilipinas!?
Running under the Makabayan Coalition are the party-list groups Bayan Muna, with former representative Neri Colmenares; Gabriela Women’s Party, with former representative Sarah Elago; ACT Teachers party-list, with Representative Antonio Tinio; and Kabataan Party-list, with Atty. Renee Co. All four serve as first nominees.
As the political landscape of the Philippines intensifies ahead of the 2025 elections, the Makabayan Coalition has formally announced its powerhouse slate of party-list groups and nominees, marking a strategic move toward advancing the interests of marginalized sectors. The coalition, known for its progressive stance, is fielding four influential party-list groups: Bayan Muna, Gabriela Women’s Party, ACT Teachers, and Kabataan Party-list. Each party-list brings a veteran first nominee with a proven track record of advocacy, amplifying the coalition's mission for social justice and reform.
The Makabayan Slate: Nominees with Proven Leadership
Bayan Muna – Leading the charge for this staunch advocate of pro-people policies is former representative Neri Colmenares. A distinguished lawyer and human rights defender, Colmenares has long fought for the protection of civil liberties, social justice, and good governance. His return as the first nominee of Bayan Muna signals a renewed push to champion the rights of ordinary Filipinos, continuing the legacy of standing against corruption and the abuse of power.
Gabriela Women’s Party – A vanguard for women's rights in the Philippines, the Gabriela Women’s Party has consistently stood up for gender equality and women’s welfare. Former representative Sarah Elago assumes the role of first nominee for the upcoming elections, bringing her unrelenting energy in advancing women’s rights, particularly in addressing violence against women, reproductive health issues, and economic empowerment. Her youthful vigor and commitment resonate with many women across various sectors.
ACT Teachers Party-list – Representing the education sector is Representative Antonio Tinio, a veteran leader of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT). Tinio has consistently advocated for the welfare of teachers, pushing for better wages, benefits, and working conditions for educators, as well as reforms to improve the quality of education in the Philippines. His candidacy underscores the coalition’s commitment to education as a critical pillar of national development.
Kabataan Party-list – As the voice of the youth, Kabataan Party-list has long championed issues that matter most to the next generation of Filipinos, including access to education, employment opportunities, and civic engagement. Atty. Renee Co, a progressive lawyer and youth advocate, takes the helm as Kabataan’s first nominee. Her legal expertise and dedication to youth empowerment positions her as a strong voice for young Filipinos navigating the complexities of the country’s future.
A Collective Push for Change
The re-entry of these experienced leaders into the political arena highlights Makabayan’s strategy to build upon its successes while continuing to challenge entrenched political structures that marginalize vulnerable sectors. Collectively, the nominees bring decades of experience in grassroots advocacy, legislative work, and public service, uniting under the common goal of providing meaningful representation for the Filipino people.
Each party-list under the Makabayan Coalition has a focused yet interrelated agenda. From Bayan Muna’s fight for human rights and sovereignty, to Gabriela’s battle for women’s welfare, ACT Teachers’ advocacy for educators, and Kabataan’s commitment to the youth—these party-lists represent the broad spectrum of Filipino society that often finds itself at the periphery of national decision-making.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Makabayan Coalition is no stranger to the political arena, its members face growing challenges in the lead-up to the elections. The intensification of red-tagging, a strategy frequently used against progressive groups, is likely to remain a significant obstacle. Despite these threats, the coalition remains steadfast, using its platform to address the urgent concerns of workers, women, teachers, and youth.
Moreover, in the backdrop of economic recovery post-pandemic, inflation, and rising inequality, the coalition is positioning itself as a vital alternative to traditional political structures. Through its principled stand on key national issues, it seeks to ignite critical conversations about the future of governance and national development in the Philippines.
Looking Forward: A Call for Unity
The Makabayan Coalition’s slate for 2025 reflects its enduring commitment to the struggle for genuine democracy and social transformation. As the nation braces for another electoral cycle, these four party-lists aim to mobilize various sectors to stand united, believing that real change can only be achieved through collective action.
This election season, voters will have the opportunity to support leaders who not only represent their interests but who also embody a vision of a more inclusive, equitable, and just Philippines. With a slate of seasoned advocates, the Makabayan Coalition is prepared to carry forward the fight for systemic change and uphold the voices of the Filipino people in the halls of Congress.
In a time of great uncertainty, Makabayan’s message remains clear: The fight for people’s rights, dignity, and well-being continues.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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