President Duterte has called Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) party to unite and rally behind the administration’s programs on federalism, as well as anti-drug and anti-corruption efforts.
The President issued the unity call to foster a “very bright future” for the country during the 1st anniversary of PDP-Laban Cares and PDP-Laban leaders reunion in Pasay City last Wednesday night.
“As we [undergo] reforms in this administration, our unity is now more important than ever. I, therefore, ask the continued support of PDP-Laban and its partners in creating practical solutions to address the root cause of our nation’s problems,” Duterte said.
“Let us remain committed to the party’s vision of liberating our people from the clutches of poverty, conflict, crime, illegal drugs and corruption through the promotion of justice, equality, and good governance,” said Duterte, chairman of the ruling party.
President Duterte also called on his party-mates to promote the proposed shift to federalism, a priority measure of his administration.
“Let us become instruments of real change in society by advancing the PDP-Laban’s core agenda of federalism, preferential policy for the poor and the marginalized, religious tolerance, and equal opportunity for all,” he said.
“With your help, I see a very bright future ahead for the Philippines,” he said.
The President, however, told the squabbling leaders to part ways if they cannot iron out their differences, according to his spokesman Harry Roque.
At the same PDP-Laban event in Pasay, the President expressed appreciation for the party’s “unfailing support and belief” in his leadership.
He also recognized PDP-Laban Cares for providing relief and assistance to Filipinos during calamities and armed conflicts.
“Year after year, we continue to face challenges that test our strength as a nation and solidarity as a people. And in times of disaster, calamity and conflict, PDP-Laban Cares has been among the government’s reliable partners in responding to those in need,” he said.
He said the collaborative efforts of the PDP-Laban Cares and its partners proved that
Also present in the PDP-Laban event were Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez, and PDP Cares chair Kathryna Yu.