PDP-Laban convened its candidates for the 2025 elections in a strategic workshop on Friday, November 24, emphasizing unity amid political tensions. The event, held at Oasis Hotel, showcased the legislative priorities of its senatorial aspirants—lawyers Raul Lambino, Jayvee Hinlo, and Jimmy Bondoc—while reaffirming the party’s commitment to the principles of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Lambino defended Vice President Sara Duterte against criticisms stemming from her recent remarks about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and key administration figures, framing them as valid democratic expressions. He also condemned the alleged misuse of legislative committees for “political persecution,” calling for reforms to safeguard their credibility. Lambino pledged legal support for Duterte if investigations into her actions escalate.
Hinlo and Bondoc echoed calls for anti-corruption measures, with Hinlo advocating industrialization and state-managed farming, while Bondoc pushed for Senate diplomacy and reforms in the entertainment sector.
The absence of reelectionist Senators Bong Go and Ronald dela Rosa, who were assisting the Vice President in Quezon City, underscored growing fissures between the Duterte camp and the Marcos administration.
PDP-Laban, led by organizer Vivian Velez, emphasized unity as it gears up for the upcoming elections, aiming to maintain its influence amid rising political rifts.