In an election landscape crowded with political dynasties and high-profile alliances, one partylist group is breaking through — not with celebrity endorsements or deep-pocketed donors, but with a clear message about what it doesn’t have.

Kaunlad Pinoy, listed as #133 on the ballot, is running not on name recall or political pedigree, but on a platform of independence, grassroots service, and livelihood support.

“We are not part of any political dynasty. We are not bankrolled by big-name politicians. And we are not entering politics to protect anyone’s interests but the people’s,” said Kuya Choi, the group’s first nominee and founding leader.

Public service without the politics

While Kaunlad Pinoy is new to the congressional race, its core members have long been active in public service — quietly working with communities to train local entrepreneurs, empower informal workers and provide tools for sustainable livelihoods.

“Our leaders are not career politicians. They are teachers, mentors and community organizers — people who’ve spent years helping Filipinos build their own small businesses and improve their lives,” Kuya Choi explained.

No baggage, just advocacy

Kaunlad Pinoy’s appeal to voters is refreshingly straightforward: We’re here to help you start and grow your own business. But beyond livelihood support, the group also champions clean, advocacy-based representation.

“We’re not here to fight with anyone or play the usual political game,” Kuya Choi said. “We’re here to pass laws that matter — especially to small business owners and informal workers who’ve been overlooked for too long.”

As many partylist groups face criticism for becoming vehicles of entrenched political families, Kaunlad Pinoy is taking a firm stand against such practices.

“We didn’t buy our slot. We didn’t inherit it. We earned it through years of service and trust from the communities we’ve helped,” Kuya Choi emphasized.

“Kaunlad Pinoy will not be a puppet to anyone. We only answer to our constituents — the hardworking Filipinos striving for a better future.”

Business tools, not empty promises

Beyond campaign slogans and rallies, Kaunlad Pinoy continues to offer free seminars on financial literacy and small business management — even in the middle of the campaign season.

“We believe in action, not just airtime,” Kuya Choi said. “Whether we win or not, we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done: helping Filipinos turn their dreams into a source of income.”

In their latest campaign video, the group drives home its mission with a simple reminder: “Pangarap na negosyo, gawin nating realidad.” (Let’s turn your business dreams into reality.)

As the May elections draw near, Kaunlad Pinoy hopes to inspire voters to reject old political patterns and choose a partylist that stands for service over status — and people over power.