Over 600 individuals from diverse sectors gathered recently for the Koalisyon Makabayan’s regional convention, reinforcing the Coalition’s commitment to advancing the national democratic agenda of the Filipino people in the face of escalating political crises, a press release from Bayan Negros said.
“No longer must Filipinos choose between two evils, the Marcoses and the Dutertes, nor settle for traditional politicians. The Makabayan Coalition stands as the genuine opposition that truly represents the interests of the masses,” asserted Ereneo Longinos, regional coordinator of the Makabayan.
In a historic move, the coalition is fielding an 11-member slate for the Senate hailing from basic sectors, with five candidates present at the regional convention: Danilo “Ka Daning” Ramos, Mody Toque Floranda, Teacher France Castro, Arlene Brosas, and Amirah “Mek” Lidasan. Special guest Chair Neri Colmenares, a Negrense-born human rights lawyer and BAYAN MUNA party-list first nominee, also joined the assembly.
Local leaders of progressive party-list’s ACT Teachers, Kabataan, and Gabriela Women’s Party-list also vouched to mobilize their members to win seats again in Congress.
The Makabayan Coalition emphasized its commitment to prioritizing the voices of the marginalized in national discourse, moving beyond the superficial politicking of traditional politicians.
Key issues highlighted during the convention included national sovereignty, particularly regarding the West Philippine Sea and the repercussions of foreign incursions on local resources.
The Coalition also underscored the importance of genuine agrarian reform, a critical issue for the peasant community in Negros Island and across the nation.
The convention also addressed the recent threats faced by coalition members, including a red-tagging forum held at a state university in southern Negros.
“Despite the attempts to vilify us, our resolve is unshaken. We will continue to advocate for the rights of our people,” Longinos emphasized.
In addition to their senatorial candidates, the Makabayan Coalition endorsed Bayan Muna Councilor Pete Pico, who will run for councilor in Bacolod City. Pico aims to bring the Makabayan agenda to the local government, further strengthening the coalition’s grassroots presence.
Former Talisay City Vice Mayor Samuel Siote also openly endorsed Bayan Muna as his party-list despite his recent filing of CONA for the Liberal Party.*
