Lakas official denies alliance with any party, candidate

A ranking official of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) on Monday denied that they have already expressed support for a particular political party and aspiring presidential candidate for the 2016 elections.

In a press statement, Lakas-CMD secretary general and spokesman Jose “Joboy” Aquino II said he was asked by the party leadership to clarify media reports that they have already committed support to a particular party or candidate.

“This is not true.  While some of our members may have expressed their personal opinions, it is not binding on Lakas,” he said.

He said the party leadership has yet to conclude its ongoing consultation and dialogue with party members, adding this is the reason why there can be no truth to claims that Lakas has already concluded talks with any other political party.  

“Paano kami makikipag-usap at makikipag-kasundo sa ibang partido o sinumang kandidato kung hindi pa nga tapos ang pag-uusap internally,” he said.

Aquino said they will let the public know which party and which candidates they will be aligning themselves with and supporting in the 2016 elections.  

“This announcement will come only from the Party Chairman and Party President – Sen. [Ramon] Bong Revilla and Cong. Martin Romuladez, respectively,” he added.

He also said despite the persecution being done against the Lakas leadership and membership, they continue to be relevant and still a force in the upcoming elections as evidenced by the claim of some political camps that they already have the support of Lakas.

Vice President Jejomar Binay earlier said that there is a possibility that Lakas and his party, United Nationalist Alliance, will forge a coalition for next year’s polls.

Former Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez, one of the leaders of Lakas, said earlier that the party would most likely support Binay’s presidential bid. —Amita O. Legaspi/KBK, GMA News