Lawmaker pushes LP-NP coalition for 2016 polls

MANILA, Philippines - Iloilo City Rep. Jerry Treñas pushed yesterday for a coalition between the ruling Liberal Party (LP) and the Nacionalista Party (NP) for the May 2016 elections.

“I think that an LP-NP teamup will be unbeatable in all levels in 2016. This was already proven in 2013 when the two parties worked together in the midterm polls. This will work again in 2016,” he said.

He said the coalition could have Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, who belongs to the ruling party, as its presidential standard-bearer, with his vice presidential running mate coming from the NP.

Treñas did not name who could be the NP candidate, but among the Nacionalista senators eyeing higher office in 2016 are Alan Peter Cayetano and Antonio Trillanes IV.

He said the two parties have been working together in helping President Aquino institute much needed reforms to fight graft and corruption, and sustain the country’s economic growth.

“The two parties have no problem working together, since they share common ideals and principles when it comes to governance and public service,” he said. – With Delon Porcalla, Eva Visperas