Frank Drilon, local execs, youth voters support Abalos Senate run
Benhur Abalos comforts a PWD who is his supporter in his recent campaign sorties
MANILA, Philippines – Former Senate President Franklin Drilon and the League of Cities of the Philippines have endorsed the senatorial candidacy of former Interior Secretary and Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., citing his extensive experience and proven track record in public service.
Drilon, addressing his fellow Ilonggos, expressed confidence that Abalos will be instrumental in implementing programs that will drive further development not just in Iloilo City but across the entire Western Visayas region. He urged voters to support Abalos, emphasizing his capability to contribute to the country’s progress.
Benhur Abalos in a group selfie with swarming supporters who greeted him
“Fellow countrymen, let us vote for Benhur Abalos for the Senate. He will help sustain the progress of our city and province. Number one in the Senate!”,” Drilon said in Hiligaynon.
In a Facebook post, Abalos expressed gratitude for Drilon’s endorsement and guidance in politics and public service.
Benhur Abalos with supporters who joined him in of his motorcades in Metro Manila
The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) also formally endorsed Abalos’ senatorial bid, recognizing his advocacy for disaster preparedness, urban development, and government transparency.
In Resolution No. 2005-005, adopted during the LCP’s 79th National Executive Board Meeting on March 13, 2025, the league highlighted Abalos’ efforts in strengthening local government efficiency not only in Mandaluyong City but across the nation.
“Specifically, Atty. Abalos championed disaster preparedness, urban development, and transparency, strengthening local government efficiency in Mandaluyong City and nationwide,” according to the league.
The LCP and Abalos have been advocating for the review, amendment, and overhauling of the 33-year-old Local Government Code of the Philippines.
The LCP’s endorsement follows a similar move by the Philippine Councilors League (PCL), which underscores the strong confidence of local government officials in Abalos’ ability to represent and advocate for their interests at the national level.
Abalos has also garnered strong support from the youth sector. A recent election survey conducted by the Centre for Student Initiatives (CSI) showed him among the top 12 candidates favored by young voters.
Abalos, known for his contributions to local and national governance, transformed Mandaluyong into the “Tiger City of the Philippines.” His housing programs benefited 7,700 families, while his Project TEACH for children with disabilities earned recognition from the United Nations Public Service Awards. He also established the Garden of Life Park, a burial site for the poor, which won the Galing Pook Award.
As MMDA Chairman, he led the “Vax as One” initiative, streamlining Metro Manila’s COVID-19 vaccination rollout. As DILG Secretary, he strengthened peace and order, modernized the Bureau of Fire Protection, improved transmission line connections in Visayas and Mindanao, and strengthened the anti-drug campaign through the “BIDA Program,” which combined law enforcement with rehabilitation.
Under his leadership, authorities carried out high-profile arrests, including those of Apollo Quiboloy, former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, and child trafficker Teddy Mejia.
If elected to the Senate, Abalos vows to prioritize legislation removing VAT on electricity, supporting farmers through loan mechanisms, land tax reductions and crop insurance, and securing free education for their children. He also pushes for gratuity pay for contract workers in government offices.
Abalos opposes the Supreme Court ruling allowing commercial fishing vessels within 15-kilometer municipal waters. He champions housing programs for OFWs, expanding renewable energy, lowering power costs, and increasing fuel subsidies for transport groups, particularly tricycle drivers, to mitigate high fuel prices.
