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.

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.