The Liberal Party (LP) and Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas (APBP) have denied engaging in discussions regarding the potential inclusion of former senator and senatorial candidate Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan in the party’s senatorial lineup.

In a statement on Thursday, Pangilinan categorically denied reports suggesting that he was in talks with Alyansa following the withdrawal of Senator Imee Marcos from the administration-backed senatorial slate. 

“There have been no discussions between my camp and Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas. Our campaign remains independent and focused on our core advocacy—fighting high food prices and ensuring food security for every Filipino family,” Pangilinan said.

A newspaper article, citing an unnamed source, suggested that Alyansa was considering endorsing Pangilinan and former senator Bam Aquino.

Pangilinan and Aquino are both running as independents. Pangilinan remains a member of the Liberal Party while Aquino now chairs the Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino.

Pangilinan clarified that while he welcomes broad-based support for his advocacies, his candidacy is driven by the urgent need to address the country’s food crisis and economic hardships.

“For us, the fight is a fight for affordable food. This is not about political parties or colors. We are ready to work with all parties—whether it be Alyansa, PDP, or other groups—in the name of every Filipino family that can no longer afford enough food due to rising prices," he stressed.

Pangilinan reaffirmed his commitment to running on a platform of food security, support for farmers and fisherfolk, and long-term agricultural reforms, regardless of political affiliations.

"Our focus is clear: Hello, Pagkain sa Mababang Presyo. Hunger knows no color, and the solution to rising prices should be a collective effort, regardless of political affiliation," he concluded.

On Wednesday evening, Navotas Representative and Alyansa Campaign Manager Toby Tiangco also debunked the report, asserting that the administration’s ticket remains solid. 

“That’s completely untrue. I haven’t met with Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan. The Alyansa slate is solid and fully aligned with President Bongbong Marcos’ agenda,” Tiangco said. 

The DAILY TRIBUNE has reached out to Aquino’s camp for clarification, but they have yet to issue a statement as of writing.