Kiko’s Cebu miting de avance set for Wednesday

CEBU, Philippines —  Former senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan is set to hold his miting de avance on Wednesday, May 7, 2024, at the Plaza Independencia in Cebu City.

The former senator's Cebu sortie will be pushing for his comeback in the Senate in order to prioritize food security, education, and good governance.

According to the Cebu volunteers, performances by artists such as Gary Valenciano, Piolo Pascual, Rivermaya, Nicki Valdez, Pinky Amador, and Aya Fernandez are expected.

They are also hoping for surprise appearances from his nephew Donny Pangilinan, Kiko’s wife Sharon Cuneta, and other artists.

Local talents, including drag queens, singers, and dancers will also take the stage.

"We wanted to highlight different local artists from bands, singers, and even drag queens in Cebu which will be performing on May 7," said Sherwin Solomon Noval, one of the event organizers.

The event is expected to draw approximately 5,000 attendees, comprising supporters from various sectors, including youth, farmers, fishermen, and vendors. Pangilinan has been recognized as an honorary member of the Lupon Tagapamayapa in Cebu, reflecting his strong ties with local communities.

"This is a volunteer-driven event," emphasized Jojo Tiongko, another organizer.

Pangilinan's decision to hold his miting de avance in Cebu is a gesture of gratitude to the Cebuanos for their unwavering support in previous elections. Notably, he topped the senatorial race in Cebu in 2007.

Addressing concerns about political divisions, Noval stated, "Come, (to the miting de avance) regardless of your political beliefs, alignment. Everyone is welcome, walang kulay."

A volunteer, Kaye Gabuya, shared her reasons for supporting Pangilinan.

"Isip batan-on sa Sugbo, usa sa among gitan-aw sa among kandidato nga botaran kay ilang track records ug unsa nay nabuhat nila," she shared.

Pangilinan's campaign platform focuses on food security, education, and social justice.

He is the principal author of the Sagip Saka Act, which facilitates direct procurement of agricultural and fishery products from accredited farmers and fisherfolk organizations, bypassing middlemen and providing financial, technical, and marketing support.

He also advocates for a nationwide free breakfast program for students from Grades 1 to 12, sourcing at least 50% of ingredients locally to support farmers and combat malnutrition.

Pangilinan has consistently opposed the death penalty and political dynasties, advocating for transparent governance and human rights.

As the miting de avance approaches, organizers are preparing to address disinformation and misinformation circulating on social media, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making among voters.

"We are very much ready, we are ready to see to them how Kiko is ready to win the election," said Noval, expressing confidence in the event's outcome. (CEBU NEWS)