The Liberal Party (LP) commemorated its 75th founding anniversary on Tuesday, and they aim to open and extend the party for ordinary people.
In the video message of Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, the current president of the LP, said that their party’s belief is not only centered on its big political members but also stressed the party’s openness to the public.
He said this is due to the LP’s desire to be a real “people’s party,” and to form a group that represents the public and those they are fighting for.
“Simula nang naupo tayo bilang pangulo ng partido noong 2016, nagsimula na tayong magtanim ng mga punla ng pag-asa… Ang ating pangunahing layunin ay palawigin ang partido sa pamamagitan ng pagtanggap, pag-welcome ng ating partido ng mga karaniwang mamamayan o ordinaryong taumbayan,” said Pangilinan for the party’s diamond anniversary.
“Nais nating maging tunay na people’s party,” he added.
According to the senator, the LP is gradually reaping what they sowed.
Liberal Party targets to recruit 75,000 members
According to the party’s data in 2019, the LP has only 33 chapters throughout the Philippines. But this past year, it has reportedly reached more than 106 chapters and an organizing committee.
Vice President Leni Robredo, the chairperson of the party, welcomed the opening of the LP for non-politicians, which he said provided space for the people’s participation.
“Ganito talaga dapat ang isang partido, hindi lang para sa mga pulitiko, para sa mga gustong tumakbo… ‘Yung ‘tuloy lang,’ paanyaya natin sa mga kapuwa nating Pilipino, indikasyon para makipag-usap, makipagkuwentuhan para hanapin ang mga commonality ng mga pangarap at pinahahalagahan natin bilang iisang bansa,” said Robredo, who interpreted the theme of “Liberal Party @75: Tuloy Lang.”
She also said that the LP will continue its stand despite attacks against the party, for the sake of the people.
“Tuloy lang dahil mas malaki kaysa sa pansarili nating konteksto ang mga mithiing isinusulong natin… dahil mas malinaw ang mga prinsipyo natin,” said Robredo.
The Vice President thanked the members of the Liberal Party for their action in relief drives for those affected by the pandemic and disaster last year. She also invited them to extend the party further.