Admin bets woo Pampanga voters

The Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, the 11-member Senate slate endorsed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is set to hold four campaign events across Pampanga province on 23 April, aiming to consolidate support in the vote-rich region.

With 1.67 million registered voters, Pampanga is considered a key battleground in the May midterm elections. In 2022, Marcos secured more than 735,000 votes in the province.

Navotas City Representative Toby Tiangco, the coalition’s campaign manager, said the Pampanga sortie reflects the slate’s commitment to direct voter engagement. “Pampanga is a game-changer,” Tiangco said. “Its people want leaders who will work, not grandstand, and that’s exactly what Alyansa stands for.”

The Alyansa ticket includes former Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati City Mayor Abby Binay, Senators Ramon Bong Revilla, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, and Francis Tolentino; former Senators Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao and Vicente Sotto III; ACT-CIS Representative Erwin Tulfo; and Deputy Speaker Camille Villar.

Lapid, a native of Porac, Pampanga, and a former governor, is expected to receive a warm reception.

The slate will hold events at the Sen. Lito Lapid Arena Sports Complex in Angeles City, hosted by Pampanga 1st District Rep. Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II and Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr.

A major rally is scheduled at the Laus Events Center in San Fernando City, hosted by former President and current Pampanga Second District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Lubao Mayor Esmeralda “Esmie” Pineda.

Alyansa will also join Fourth District Representative Anna York Bondoc-Sagum and several mayors from central Pampanga at the Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando.

The day will culminate in a province-wide unity event at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center, where provincial officials are expected to express their support.

Tiangco stressed Pampanga’s importance, citing its strong local leadership and vibrant economy.

“We’re not just here to campaign. We’re here to work with Kapampangans to build lasting progress,” he said.