PDP-Laban hosted a strategic planning workshop at the Oasis Hotel in Angeles City on November 24, 2024, to align the campaign platforms and strategies of its national and local candidates for the upcoming elections. The event included a press conference with senatorial aspirants Atty. Raul Lambino, Atty. Jayvee Hinlo, and Atty. Jimmy Bondoc.
Notably absent were reelectionist Senators Bong Go, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, and actor Philip Salvador, who were in Quezon City assisting Vice President Sara Duterte and OVP Chief of Staff Atty. Zuleika Lopez at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center.
The workshop provided a forum for candidates to present their legislative agendas, all rooted in the party’s principles and the legacy of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD). Key topics included governance, public welfare, and economic recovery, reflecting PDP-Laban’s commitment to federalism, anti-corruption, and grassroots empowerment.
Atty. Raul Lambino, one of the senatorial aspirants, addressed recent controversial remarks made by Vice President Sara Duterte about President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM), First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Lambino emphasized that the Vice President’s statements were within her legal rights, noting that while they were provocative, they fell under the protections of free expression and constructive criticism in a democracy.
Lambino also criticized the overreach of “quad committees,” which he said were increasingly used for political persecution rather than legitimate legislative inquiry. He argued that such practices undermine the credibility of the legislative process and called for stricter adherence to protocols, asserting that committees must operate within their defined jurisdictions for fairness and efficiency.
On the issue of confidential funds, Lambino explained that their secretive nature requires them to be exempt from standard auditing procedures, as they are crucial for protecting national security. However, he stressed the need for mechanisms to ensure their responsible use in accordance with their intended purpose.
In solidarity with Vice President Duterte, Lambino volunteered to represent her should any formal investigations or legal challenges arise. Drawing from his experience as a counsel during former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s legal battles, he offered his legal expertise to Duterte, who he described as a champion of reform and accountability.
Atty. Jayvee Hinlo focused on combating corruption and poverty by advocating for industrialization and state-managed farming to create jobs. He also pushed for the inclusion of “Philippine Patriotism and Ethics Studies” in the educational curriculum from Grade 1 through college, to help foster a sense of responsibility and patriotism in the youth.
If elected, Atty. Jimmy Bondoc aims to combat corruption while boosting the music and entertainment industry as an economic driver. He also supports restoring diplomacy within the Senate, ensuring it focuses on its core responsibilities. Bondoc expressed his belief that while Senate investigations are crucial, certain matters should be left to the courts, and the Senate should carefully select issues to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
The event was organized by Vivian Velez, a seasoned advocate for the party’s core values. She facilitated discussions that ensured the workshop provided a cohesive framework for candidates to engage in meaningful conversations and prepare for their campaigns.
A key theme of the gathering was the candidates’ shared commitment to unity and adherence to PDP-Laban’s founding principles, even amid rising political tensions. This event emphasized the party’s strategic focus on collaboration among its candidates and addressing critical national issues. With its clear legislative priorities, PDP-Laban is focused on maintaining its relevance and influence in the 2025 elections.