Rizal power bloc backs Abby Binay’s Senate bid

Senatorial candidate and Makati Mayor Abby Binay secured a key endorsement from Rizal Governor Nina Ricci Ynares and former Governor Casimiro “Ito” Ynares on Thursday, a day before the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas rally in Antipolo City.

The endorsement was made during a gathering of local officials, including mayors, congressmen, board members, and barangay chairs.

Governor Ynares expressed her confidence in Binay’s qualifications, citing her leadership experience in Makati.

“Alam naman natin kung gaano kaayos ang Makati. Alam naman namin kung gaano kayo ka-qualified. Dahil alam namin na kung ano ang nagawa niyo sa Makati ay gagawin niyo rin para sa ating bayan, sa Pilipinas,” Ynares said.

Binay, in her speech, reaffirmed her commitment to legislation that supports local government units, particularly barangays.

“I think you need a voice in the Senate na magsasabing bigyan naman natin ng importansya at i-professionalize natin ang mga barangay dahil lagi tayong nakatutok sa mayor, lagi tayong nakatutok sa probinsya, eh bakit hindi natin tutukan iyong mga barangay? Iyon iyong basic unit na public servant sa atin,” Binay said.

She also underscored her advocacy for disaster risk reduction and support for rescue workers, noting the vulnerability of Rizal to natural calamities.

“Especially sa Rizal, one thing that we want to push in the Senate is dapat po lahat ng DRRM employees may insurance. Dapat diyan may GSIS,” Binay said.

Binangonan Mayor Cesar Ynares, president of the League of Municipalities – Rizal Chapter, and Liga ng mga Barangay – Rizal Chapter President Edmun Aquino also expressed their full support for Binay’s senatorial bid. Both called on Rizaleños to help ensure her victory.

Rizal, a vote-rich province, currently has 1.67 million registered voters.

Binay is running under the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition. Her legislative priorities include providing free maintenance medicines, strengthening early childhood education, and removing taxes on bonuses and overtime pay for both private and government workers.