‘Liberal Party at 75: The voice of the voiceless’

MANILA, Philippines — The Liberal Party (LP), which marked its 75th anniversary yesterday, remains the voice of reason and the voice of the voiceless, according to Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon.

“Leaders and politicians come and go, but only a few leave deep footprints on the sands. In its 75 years of existence, I am proud that the Liberal Party has produced people of great courage, honor, and integrity – Ninoy Aquino, Gerry Roxas and Jovy Salonga, among others,” read Drilon’s message posted on LP’s Facebook account with hashtag #LIBERAL75 #TuloyLang Happy anniversary! Mabuhay ang Partido Liberal ng Pilipinas!

“Let us continue to uphold the principles of the Liberal Party. Let us remain the voice of reason and the voice of the voiceless. Let us continue to be the champion of good governance and grassroots leadership,” Drilon added.

“Next year, we will face another battle again. The challenges may be daunting but if we remind ourselves for whom we fight – the Filipino people – no challenge is insurmountable,” he said, referring to the national elections.

On its 75th anniversary, LP unveiled a new logo.

Meanwhile, former senator and interior secretary Mar Roxas said Liberals have always been present and relevant.

“Know that you belong to a long and honorable bloodline of patriots. At critical moments in our nation’s history, from liberation up to the present, Liberals have always been present and relevant, and have played a constructive, nation-building role,” read Roxas’ statement also posted on the LP Facebook account.

“And beyond the projects and policies and rhetoric, we do our work mindful that at the end of it all is a Filipino. A Filipino who wants a better life for himself, his family, his progeny; a Filipino who deserves a life of dignity. Our focus will always be on the people (Lagi, sa tao ang tutok natin),” he said.

“During difficult times, now and in the past, we have been guided by this constant moral north star country’s first before self (bayan bago sarili). That is why we’re still here, still standing. We will continue, on behalf of the people. Let’s go on, partymates. (Tuloy pa rin tayo, sa ngalan ng tao. Tuloy lang tayo, mga ka-partido),” he said.

Sen. Francis Pangilinan said the history of the party is also the history of the republic. “Four presidents of the Republic came from our ranks. The experience of the Liberal Party was extensive and meaningful. The party has faced many trials over the past seven decades, but we are still here,” he said.