San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan — A lively Bulacan crowd welcomed administration-backed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas (APBP) senatorial candidates in San Jose Del Monte on Friday.

According to Alyansa's campaign manager, Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco, Bulacan plays a key role in the success of APBP's campaign as the area is a vote-rich province.

"The role that Bulacan will play for the economy of our country is very important. It is also very important that we come here to showcase to our countrymen the programs for Bulacan," he said.

According to organizers, more than 23,000 Bulakenyos filled the City College of San Jose Del Monte grounds — the site of the campaign rally.

In his speech, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. boasted about the performance and careers of his senatorial candidates.

Many of the candidates have served in their local government units, provincial government, as well as on the national government.

Eight of the 12 candidates have been or are currently sitting as Senators.

Hoping to replicate the success of his campaign, Marcos pushed for unity among Alyansa bets.

"Progress and Peace will be achieved if we are united, this is probably one of the best examples that we will present to the people of the country [that we are] united and working together to serve the people.

"What we need are solutions and not hot and strong hurtful words. What we need are solutions to the problems we face," he added. 

Compared to his previous remarks, Marcos has "toned-down" his criticisms of allies of his predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

This time, he did not make any connection between Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) and Duterte, nor did he mention the dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, ACT-CIS Representative Erwin Tulfo and the President's sister, Senator Imee Marcos, were not able to join the rally.