7 political parties ally with Lakas-CMD

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 29) — Seven political parties on Monday signed an agreement affirming their alliance with the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), according to House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Among the parties were Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), National Unity Party (NUP), Nacionalista Party (NP), Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC), Party-list Coalition Foundation Inc. (PCFI), Partido Navoteño, and Centrist Democratic Party (CDP).

Political leaders signed the alliance agreement with Lakas-CMD, citing their shared vision of a strong republic through sustainable growth and the development of the regions in the country.

"Both parties agree to give their full and unqualified support to the 17th President of the Republic of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr." and "to give their full support on the legislative agenda of the President of the Republic of the Philippines."

"Both parties agree to give their full and unqualified support to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 19th Congress, Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez," read the agreement released by Romualdez.

Romualdez, who is also Lakas-CMD's president, said the agreement is in effect until the 19th Congress adjourns in 2025.

"It also emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation among all political parties. This is a critical message at a time when the country is facing a number of challenges," he said.

This affirmation of alliance from other parties came after Lakas-CMD chairperson emeritus former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was demoted from senior deputy speaker to deputy speaker and Vice President Sara Duterte's resignation from the ruling party.

There were also rumors linking Arroyo to a plot to oust Romualdez, the first cousin of the president, after she was demoted on May 17.

The former president has denied the claims while Romualdez reiterated that the House of Representatives is in order.