PDP-Laban’s Political Resurgence: Challenges, Alliances, and the Road to 2025

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As the political landscape of the Philippines shifts ahead of the 2025 elections, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP-Laban) is making significant moves to reassert itself as a dominant force. Once the party of former President Rodrigo Duterte, PDP-Laban is now navigating a complex mix of internal divisions, strategic alliances, and efforts to solidify its relevance in a rapidly changing political environment. The party’s recent actions, from rebranding to forming new political partnerships, have sparked debate, but they also reflect the evolving dynamics within the country’s political scene.

Rebranding and Leadership Changes: A New Direction?

In April 2024, PDP-Laban took a bold step by reverting to its original name, dropping the "Laban" and choosing to go by Partido Demokratiko Pilipino once again. This decision was seen as a return to the party’s roots, but it has not come without controversy. Some party members, like Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, have expressed concerns about the rebranding, arguing that it undermines the party’s historical identity as a center-left organization. Pimentel criticized the move, suggesting that it was an attempt to rebrand the party to cater to the Duterte-Cusi faction’s political interests (newsinfo.inquirer.net).

The controversy surrounding the rebranding highlights ongoing tensions within the party. These rifts reflect the broader struggles PDP-Laban faces as it tries to reassert its identity and influence in the political sphere. Despite these internal disputes, the party’s ties to the influential Duterte family remain strong. In September 2024, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, son of former President Duterte, was appointed as the executive vice-chairperson of PDP-Laban, further solidifying the party’s leadership under the Duterte family’s political influence (en.wikipedia.org).

Strategic Alliances: Preparing for the 2025 Elections

As the 2025 elections approach, PDP-Laban has been actively working on strengthening its political alliances. In September 2024, the party announced a new coalition with three political groups, signaling a strategic move to consolidate power and increase its influence in the upcoming elections. This alliance is part of the party’s larger effort to build a more unified front, broaden its base, and enhance its chances in a highly competitive political environment (manilatimes.net).

PDP-Laban’s alliances are not limited to political parties alone. The party has also forged strong ties with the influential Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), a religious group with significant sway over Filipino voters. In September 2024, PDP-Laban participated in a rally organized by INC, where they expressed support for Vice President Sara Duterte and denounced attempts to impeach her. This rally reflects the party’s ongoing efforts to align with key groups and figures that share similar political goals and ideologies (gmanetwork.com).

Internal Struggles and Factionalism

Despite its efforts to build alliances and strengthen its position, PDP-Laban is not without its internal challenges. The party has been grappling with factionalism, particularly between the Duterte-Cusi faction and those loyal to the original founding members. A notable example of this divide occurred when Senator Francis Tolentino, a key member of the party, resigned due to disagreements over the party’s handling of the South China Sea dispute. This resignation highlighted the growing tension within the party, with members taking opposing stances on critical national issues (en.wikipedia.org).

This factionalism has been a significant challenge for PDP-Laban, as it risks eroding the unity and coherence necessary for the party to be effective in the 2025 elections. Despite these tensions, the Duterte family’s influence continues to play a central role in the party’s direction and leadership.

Navigating Political Controversies

As the 2025 elections approach, PDP-Laban is also facing increasing scrutiny over its political actions. One of the most contentious issues is the party’s defense of Vice President Sara Duterte amid impeachment efforts. PDP-Laban issued a manifesto in response to the impeachment complaints, calling the move “baseless and politically motivated.” The party argued that these efforts were part of a broader strategy to undermine Duterte’s leadership and destabilize the government. The manifesto also criticized the impeachment as a distraction from the Duterte administration’s achievements and claimed that it represented an abuse of constitutional mechanisms (manilatimes.net).

The impeachment controversy has highlighted the deep political divisions in the country, with supporters of the Duterte administration standing firmly behind the Vice President, while critics call for accountability and transparency. This issue has brought to the forefront the broader debate over political dynasties, corruption, and the rule of law in the Philippines.

The Road Ahead: Can PDP-Laban Unite?

As PDP-Laban prepares for the 2025 elections, it faces an uphill battle. The party’s ability to unite its factions, maintain its political alliances, and present a coherent message to the electorate will be critical. The ongoing internal strife, public controversies, and the shifting political landscape present significant challenges for the party as it navigates the complex dynamics of Philippine politics.

The party’s future will depend on how it handles these challenges. If PDP-Laban can successfully mend its internal divisions, forge meaningful partnerships, and present a unified front, it could emerge as a formidable force in the 2025 elections. However, if it fails to address its internal struggles and political controversies, it risks being overshadowed by other political groups vying for power.

As the election season heats up, PDP-Laban’s actions in the coming months will be crucial in determining whether it can reassert its dominance in Philippine politics or whether it will fade into the background of a rapidly evolving political scene. The party’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances, manage internal dissent, and leverage its alliances will ultimately determine its political future.

A Glimpse into the Dinner at Bahay Pangulo: First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos Hosts Senators and Their Spouses

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

On January 14, 2025, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos took to her social media platforms to share an intimate snapshot of a dinner gathering held at the prestigious Bahay Pangulo in Manila. The event, which was attended by several prominent senators and their spouses, reflects the ongoing efforts of the Marcos administration to strengthen relationships between the executive branch and the legislative body.

The image showcased a warm, convivial atmosphere, with the attendees smiling and enjoying the evening together. However, the absence of several high-profile senators sparked curiosity and speculation among political observers and the public.

Attendees and the Notable Absentees

The photo highlighted the presence of several senators and their spouses, indicating strong political ties and camaraderie. Among the senators who attended were:

Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. and spouse

Senator Lito Lapid and spouse

Senator Francis Tolentino and spouse

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and spouse

Senator Raffy Tulfo and spouse

Senator Joel Villanueva and spouse

Senator Mark Villar and spouse

Senator Jinggoy Estrada and spouse

Senator Francis Escudero and spouse

Senator Cynthia Villar and spouse

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and spouse

Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel and spouse

Senator Loren Legarda and spouse

Senator Robin Padilla and spouse

Despite the wide array of senators in attendance, some notable names were conspicuously missing from the gathering. Senators Imee Marcos, Grace Poe, Risa Hontiveros, Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, and Bong Go were absent, with no official statement regarding their reasons for not attending. The absence of these figures, particularly Senator Imee Marcos, who is also a close relative of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., has raised questions about the dynamics of their political relationships and the current political climate within the Senate.

Such gatherings often serve as a platform for informal discussions, allowing the executive branch to foster collaboration and communication with the legislative leaders. The presence and absence of particular senators can sometimes reveal subtle shifts in political alliances, reflecting the complex and ever-evolving nature of governance in the Philippines.

The Significance of the Dinner: Strengthening Ties

The dinner at Bahay Pangulo was not just an opportunity for food and casual conversation; it was part of a broader effort to cultivate strong working relationships between the executive and legislative branches of the government. These social gatherings have become a hallmark of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos's administration, aiming to build bridges between political leaders and promote cooperation in addressing the country’s most pressing issues.

This recent dinner follows similar events hosted by the First Couple, underscoring their consistent commitment to fostering unity among lawmakers. In May 2024, the couple hosted a casual dinner with senators and their spouses at the Bahay Pangulo, shortly after a significant leadership change in the Senate. The ousting of former Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri and the subsequent installation of Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero as the new Senate President made this gathering particularly noteworthy. It was a strategic move to smooth over any potential tensions and ensure that the Senate remained a productive partner to the administration.

Similarly, in July 2022, the Marcoses held a "get-together" with senators and their spouses as part of their ongoing effort to maintain positive working relationships with key political figures. These events are not just about enjoying a meal together; they represent an ongoing strategy to nurture alliances and encourage open dialogue between the branches of government.

What Does This Mean for Philippine Politics?

In the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine politics, social gatherings like these play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the country’s governance. Such events offer lawmakers an opportunity to connect on a personal level, away from the formalities of Senate sessions. These informal settings provide a space where political leaders can freely discuss issues, share opinions, and possibly align on crucial legislative priorities.

The fact that certain senators were absent from the dinner could be indicative of underlying political currents. Absences from high-profile events often spark speculation about potential rifts, shifts in allegiance, or the forging of new alliances. In this case, the absence of Senator Imee Marcos, for example, could be seen as significant, given her familial ties to the President and her prominent role in Philippine politics. While there is no clear indication of discord, political observers will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how these relationships evolve.

Moreover, such events provide opportunities for both the executive and legislative branches to align on key national issues, such as economic recovery, healthcare reform, and national security. While the specifics of the discussions that took place during this dinner remain private, it’s clear that these interactions are essential for the smooth functioning of the government.

Moving Forward: The Importance of Building Relationships

As we look ahead, it is clear that interpersonal relationships remain a cornerstone of effective governance in the Philippines. With the Senate set to debate critical pieces of legislation in the coming months, it is likely that these informal gatherings will continue to play an essential role in shaping the country’s political future. As the First Lady and her husband continue to foster ties with lawmakers, the hope is that these relationships will lead to greater cooperation and progress for the nation.

While it’s impossible to predict how the political dynamics will unfold, it’s clear that First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’s dinner at Bahay Pangulo serves as a reminder of the power of diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation in building a united government.

Speaker Romualdez Vows to Continue Investigations into Rice, Electricity Prices, and National Reforms

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a powerful statement on January 13, 2025, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez reaffirmed his commitment to the continued investigations of essential issues affecting the Filipino people, particularly rising rice and electricity prices. Addressing the resumption of the 19th Congress session, Romualdez emphasized the House of Representatives’ role as a vanguard of good governance, committed to transparency and accountability in the government.

“Our fight for the people’s welfare continues,” Speaker Romualdez declared, noting that the ongoing inquiries would tackle the underlying causes of soaring rice and agricultural product prices, as well as electricity rates. The House’s investigations are set to delve into widespread concerns over smuggling and hoarding practices that undermine local farmers, contribute to inflation, and hinder food security.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), a key player in the country’s energy sector, is also under scrutiny for alleged violations of its legislative franchise. NGCP, which has attracted attention due to its 40% ownership by Chinese interests, has been accused of disallowed expenditures amounting to ₱206 billion. These funds, Speaker Romualdez stressed, should have been used to benefit Filipino consumers.

In addition to these inquiries, Romualdez outlined other pressing issues that the House intends to address, including the mismanagement of ₱11.18 billion worth of expired medicines and the underutilization of funds allocated for PhilHealth services, which directly affect the health and well-being of Filipinos. He also underscored the House’s commitment to investigating the potential misuse of confidential funds, ensuring that no public money goes unaccounted for.

Standing Firm for the Filipino People

Despite mounting pressure from various quarters to halt these investigations, Speaker Romualdez declared, “We will not back down. We will continue the work entrusted to us by the Filipino people. We stand firm in our mission to address the needs of our nation, and we will never betray the public trust.”

The Speaker’s firm stance reflects his broader vision for a more transparent and accountable government. Under his leadership, the House has made strides in uncovering inefficiencies and pushing for reforms that will directly benefit Filipino citizens. “Public trust is sacred,” Romualdez emphasized, asserting that the legislative body is committed to upholding the integrity of public office.

Economic Growth Amid Challenges

While advocating for crucial reforms, Romualdez also highlighted the Philippines’ impressive economic resilience in 2024. Despite the challenges posed by typhoons and global economic uncertainties, early projections show a solid growth rate of 5.9% to 6.5%. “This performance is a testament to the hardworking Filipino farmer, worker, and entrepreneur who continue to drive our economy forward,” Romualdez remarked.

However, the Speaker reminded his colleagues that economic growth must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Filipinos. While inflation has eased to 4.9%, many families still face financial strain. Romualdez pointed to government programs like the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) and Kadiwa ng Pangulo, which offer direct economic assistance to vulnerable sectors of society.

“Economic progress should not just be about numbers; it must uplift the lives of our people,” he asserted. Romualdez’s leadership has focused on blending strategic governance with compassion, ensuring that policies are designed not just to spur growth but to address the immediate needs of the Filipino people.

Legislative Achievements and Future Goals

In 2024, the House of Representatives achieved a significant milestone, passing 183 measures that became law. However, Romualdez emphasized that success is not measured by quantity alone, but by the quality of laws and their capacity to change lives. Among the most notable pieces of legislation passed in 2024 were:

CREATE MORE Act: This law aims to stimulate economic recovery by fostering investments and job creation.

Self-Reliant Defense Posture Act: Strengthening national security while creating skilled jobs.

Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act: Targeting smuggling and profiteering in the agriculture sector.

Philippine Maritime Zones Act & Archipelagic Sealanes Act: Enhancing maritime sovereignty and promoting the maritime economy.

Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Act: Bridging educational gaps for Filipino youth.

These laws, according to Romualdez, represent not only policy changes but commitments to a better, fairer, and stronger nation. He highlighted that the House, which he proudly calls the “People’s Chamber,” stands as a symbol of democracy’s enduring strength. “Within these walls, we do not simply draft laws; we give life to the aspirations of our nation,” he said.

Global Leadership and the Future of the Philippines

As Speaker Romualdez concluded his remarks, he turned his focus to the Philippines’ emerging role on the global stage. “Our nation is no longer a quiet observer in the global arena. It is a leader,” he asserted. The Philippines, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is increasingly seen as a beacon of growth and stability, exemplified by the transformative “Build, Better, More” infrastructure program.

This international shift in perception is critical for the Philippines, as it seeks to assert its sovereignty while fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and global partnerships. Romualdez’s call to action remains clear: “Leadership is not defined by the power we wield but by the lives we change.”

In the weeks ahead, the Speaker’s commitment to rigorous investigations, transparent governance, and strategic reforms promises to continue shaping the country’s future, ensuring that progress reaches every Filipino.