Duterte Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP as Party Drops 'Laban' and Announces Senatorial Slate

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte reaffirmed his loyalty to the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) during the party's 42nd anniversary celebration in Cebu City on Wednesday. The event saw several significant changes for the party, including the removal of 'Laban' from its name and the endorsement of senatorial candidates for the 2025 elections.

PDP, founded in 1982 by former Senate President Aquilino 'Nene' Pimentel Jr., had previously merged with Lakas ng Bayan (Power of the People) to become PDP-Laban. However, the party has recently undergone a shift in its politics and goals, culminating in its support for President Bongbong Marcos, a move criticized by Nene's widow, Lourdes 'Bing' Pimentel, and his son, Senator Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel III.

During the anniversary celebration, PDP announced its senatorial slate for the 2025 elections, which includes Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa, Francis Tolentino, Christopher Lawrence 'Bong' Go, and actor Philip Salvador. Dela Rosa emphasized the importance of their presence in the Senate, stating, "Our presence in the Senate would prevent individuals with malicious intentions from advancing their agenda." He also highlighted that PDP members adhere to the party's principles.

Duterte, who serves as the party's president, expressed gratitude to the supporters and reiterated the significance of a democratic country. The former president's endorsement of the senatorial candidates comes despite his previous criticism of the Marcos administration's foreign policy.

Why this matters: The changes within PDP and Duterte's reaffirmation of loyalty to the party signify a notable shift in Philippine politics. The party's endorsement of President Marcos and its senatorial slate for the 2025 elections may have significant implications for the country's political landscape and future policies.

As the Philippines prepares for the 2025 senatorial elections, the PDP's newly announced candidates, backed by former President Duterte, are positioned to play a vital role in shaping the nation's legislative agenda. Duterte's continued influence within the party and his endorsement of the senatorial slate underscore the complex dynamics of Philippine politics and the potential for new alliances and shifts in power.

Key Takeaways

• Duterte reaffirmed loyalty to PDP, party dropped 'Laban' from name
• PDP announced senatorial slate for 2025 elections, including Bato, Tolentino, Go
• Duterte endorsed PDP's senatorial candidates despite past criticism of Marcos
• PDP's changes and Duterte's endorsement signal shifts in Philippine politics
• PDP's 2025 candidates, backed by Duterte, may shape nation's legislative agenda