Senatorial candidates of administration-backed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas face the media in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna on Saturday (March 22, 2025). From left are Benhur Abalos, Panfilo Lacson, Erwin Tulfo, Vicente Sotto III and Senator Francis Tolentino. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made it clear on Saturday that the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial slate is united against the violent, deadly approach to the war on drugs.
Speaking to a lively crowd in Santa Rosa City, Laguna, Marcos emphasized that his administration’s candidates believe in a smarter, more humane strategy that empowers the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government units (LGUs) through solid legislation.
“None of us here believe that fighting crime and drugs means killing thousands of Filipinos. That is not the right way,” Marcos declared. “We need to strengthen peace, fight crime, and take down drug lords without taking Filipino lives.”
Instead of violence, Marcos said the Alyansa team is focused on crafting laws that equip authorities with real tools to combat crime and curb the spread of illegal drugs—especially those that endanger the youth.
“We are writing laws that truly empower our police and LGUs,” he said. “We want to stop crime and end the drug menace that’s ruining our children’s future.”
A coalition for change
Marcos said the Alyansa senatorial lineup shares his vision of prioritizing the Filipino people’s welfare, standing up against foreign threats, and addressing key issues like poverty and crime with lasting solutions.
“Let’s work together, let’s form an alliance again,” he urged. “Let’s fight poverty, crime, and drug lords. Our Alyansa is ready to do the work and bring peace back to our beloved Philippines.”
A powerhouse slate
The Alyansa senatorial ticket is stacked with familiar names and experienced leaders, including:
- Former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos
- Makati City Mayor Abby Binay
- Incumbent Senators Ramon Revilla Jr., Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, and Francis Tolentino
- Former Senators Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao, and Vicente Sotto III
- House Representatives Erwin Tulfo and Camille Villar
Campaign manager and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco expressed confidence that Laguna—home to over 2.14 million registered voters—will back Alyansa’s candidates, citing their strong track records and actionable plans.
Focus on land use, urban growth
At a press conference before the rally, Alyansa candidates also stressed the need for smarter land use and urban planning—especially in rapidly developing areas like Laguna.
They called for the urgent passage of the National Land Use Act, which aims to protect agricultural lands from unchecked urban sprawl and ensure sustainable development across the country.
“As long as this law remains pending, our agricultural areas will keep shrinking,” warned Rep. Erwin Tulfo. “Farmers are left with little choice but to sell their land due to lack of income and government support.”
Former Senate President Vicente Sotto III recalled that the Senate approved the bill during the 15th Congress, but it stalled in the House.
Meanwhile, former Senator Panfilo Lacson pointed out that Calabarzon still has 90,000 hectares of disposable agricultural land—an opportunity the country can’t afford to waste.
“We need a national urban plan,” said Sen. Francis Tolentino, noting Laguna’s rapid industrialization and role as the “Detroit of the Philippines.”
Former DILG chief Benhur Abalos added that LGUs must anticipate the infrastructure demands of development, while Mayor Abby Binay stressed the importance of implementing Comprehensive Land Use Plans to balance progress with preservation.