Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Representative Leila de Lima announced that efforts are underway to form an independent opposition bloc that will serve as a “constructive” critic of the Marcos administration in the upcoming 20th Congress.
This move comes amid escalating tension within the House of Representatives, particularly the speakership battle between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s allies led by Speaker Martin Romualdez and Vice President Sara Duterte’s camp, represented by her brother, Davao City Representative Paolo Duterte.
De Lima expressed concern over the possibility that Pulong Duterte could lead the minority should he lose the speakership race, prompting groups such as ML, Akbayan, and select members of the Liberal Party to consider forming a separate opposition.
Representatives Alfredo Garbin and Ysabel Zamora also questioned Duterte’s legislative attendance record, stressing that active participation is crucial for a minority leader.
De Lima dismissed speculation that her bloc is aligned with the Marcos administration, labeling the so-called “Unipink” alliance as a baseless political myth.
She assured that the group’s role will be issue-based, independent, and centered on accountability and policy scrutiny.
Acknowledging the complex political landscape in the House, De Lima said the new bloc will adapt over time while remaining open to collaboration with other opposition groups such as Makabayan and the Kamanggagawa Party-list, provided they share common advocacies.