Alyansa denies recruiting Kiko Pangilinan, Bam Aquino for admin slate

Metro Manila, Philippines – Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas campaign manager and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco has dismissed reports that the coalition is recruiting former senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino to join its administration-backed slate following the withdrawal of Senator Imee Marcos.

“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.

A news report earlier stated that Pangilinan and Aquino were eyed as replacements for Marcos and House Deputy Speaker Camille Villar, both of whom have been notably absent from recent Alyansa rallies.

Tiangco also reaffirmed Villar’s affiliation with the coalition.

“Yes, the Nacionalista Party remains part of Alyansa. Las Piñas Representative Camille Villar was present in an Alyansa meeting last night,” he said on Tuesday.

In a statement on Thursday, Pangilinan also denied having discussions with the administration-backed slate, stressing that his campaign remains independent.

He also said he is focused on his core advocacy of fighting high food prices and ensuring food security.

“Sa atin, ang laban ay laban para sa pagkain sa murang presyo. Hindi ito usapin ng partido o kulay. Handa tayo makipagtulungan sa lahat ng mga partido, Alyansa man o PDP o iba pang mga grupo sa ngalan ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino na hindi na makabili ng sapat na pagkain dahil sa taas ng presyo,” he said.

[Translation: Our fight is for lower prices on food. We are ready to work with all parties, either Alyansa, PDP, or any group, in the name of every Filipino family that could not buy enough food due to high costs.]

Aquino has yet to release a statement on the matter.

Marcos officially withdrew from the Alyansa slate, which is endorsed by her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Her decision came days after she led a Senate investigation into the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte following a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

During the Senate hearing, Marcos accused authorities of “hiding essential facts” by repeatedly invoking executive privilege when questioned about the arrest.

“As will be soon discussed in my preliminary findings, clearly there were actions taken by the administration which run counter to my ideals and principles,” she said.

Tiangco said the party respects Marcos’ decision.

“We wish her luck in the campaign,” he said.