Senator Risa Hontiveros on Political Allies in Senate
Senator Risa Hontiveros recently confirmed she still considers Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino as political allies despite their move to join the Senate majority bloc. This declaration highlights the ongoing possibility of collaboration on key issues in the Senate.
“We and our parties are still allies. On issues where our opinions align, there is still a possibility to work together, even here in the Senate,” Hontiveros shared during a July 31 press briefing, speaking in a mix of Filipino and English. Her remarks emphasized that political alliances can transcend bloc divisions.
Opportunities for Unity Within Senate Minority
Hontiveros also pointed out that from the united five-member minority, there is room to invite other colleagues, including Pangilinan and Aquino, to cooperate on shared advocacies. “From our united five-member minority, there is a possibility that we can invite other colleagues to work with us — including the two of them,” she added in Filipino.
She affirmed her commitment to align the Senate minority’s efforts with the broader opposition movement, both inside and outside the chamber. “I still consider them as allies. And my priority, from within the united minority, is to continue working to strengthen the opposition outside the Senate. I expect that my fellow minority members — and our allies outside Congress — will share this goal,” she said, mostly in Filipino.
Cooperation Beyond Political Realignments
Despite recent shifts in political alliances within the Senate, Hontiveros stressed that space remains to collaborate on common causes. Her stance suggests a pragmatic approach to politics, focusing on advocacy over bloc loyalty.
This evolving dynamic reflects the complex nature of political relationships in the Philippines, where shared goals can bridge differences. Sources noted that Hontiveros’ approach aims to maintain unity among opposition voices amidst changing Senate configurations.
For more news and updates on political allies, visit Filipinokami.com.
