Philippine elections: Liberal Party makes a surprise comeback, here's why

Manila: The Philippines' Liberal Party (LP), once sidelined in national politics, is experiencing a notable resurgence following the May 12 vote.

This comes alongside the power consolidation aligned to both Team Duterte vs Team Marcos. 

As of Tuesday, while 18,000 positions were technically on the line — mayors, governors, lawmakers galore — it was the Senate race that had everyone on edge.

Showdown

The Marcos-Duterte showdown has become a national teleserye. However, the new Senate might just write the next few episodes with an emerging three-way political equation — Duterte camp, Marcose camp and the Liberals (and a few independents).

With unofficial tallies almost complete, Marcos-backed candidates look set to grab more than half the 12 open Senate seats, while Duterte-aligned senators are leading. 

Duterte’s still got it (from The Hague, no less)

In the Senate race, spots #1 and #3 went to Duterte's most loyal allies — Bong Go and Bato dela Rosa.

Rodrigo Duterte himself just scored a mayoral win in Davao while in The Hague.  

Marcos’ machine still running

Meanwhile, President Bongbong Marcos may have had a public falling-out with VP Sara Duterte, but his machinery is humming. 

Seven of his allies are in the Senate’s winning circle. That’s a big deal — especially with Sara possibly facing an impeachment trial. 

Why? Because senators vote on that. And just to stir the drama, Marcos’ sister Imee is currently siding with the Dutertes. For now.

Turns out the Duterte and Marcos dynasties aren’t going anywhere just yet. 

No knockout for Pacquiao, Revilla

In a surprising twist, two political veterans with big names and box office buzz — Manny Pacquiao and Bong Revilla—fell out of the coveted Magic 12. 

Another notable number: Independent anti-corruption advocate Heidi Mendoza garnered a higher number of votes than actor Willie Revillame. Luke Espiritu, a lawyer and labour leader, got 6 million votes, higher than jailed pastor Apollo Quiboloy. 

And Leni Robredo, an LP stalwart and the former Vice President, just made history as the first female mayor of Naga City, in eastern Philippines.

So perhaps Filipino voters are finally letting the old names go, and looking for fresher faces?

Liberals' comeback

What’s behind LP’s surprising comeback? A number of key factors, say pundits:

1. Reinvigoration of prominent figures

Former senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino have re-entered the political arena, launching the "KiBam" campaign — an initiative aimed at reconnecting with voters. Their return, as evidenced by the votes garnered, brought renewed visibility and credibility to the LP leadership.

2. Leila de Lima's unjust persecution

After her release from seven-year detention in 2024, former senator Leila de Lima has announced her candidacy as the lead nominee for the LP-backed party-list group, Mamamayang Liberal (ML).

With more than 90% of votes counted, unofficial results show ML has secured a seat in the House of Representatives. De Lima, who led investigation into extra-judicial killings, was jailed on trumped-up drug charges by the Duterte camp, using false witnesses who, conscience-stricken, later recanted their accusations against her.

Her return is seen as a pushback against shoot-before-you-ask sort of delivery of justice, resonating with voters seeking accountability.  

3. Strategic alliances

The LP has formed alliances with parties like the Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino (KANP), broadening its support base. This bridge-building reflects a strategic approach to the opposition and present a formidable challenge in the elections.  

4. Public disenchantment with dynasties

The ongoing political feud between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte has led to public fatigue with entrenched political families. This environment has created an opportunity for the LP to position itself as a viable alternative focused on governance and policy over personalities.

5. Resonance with young, progressive voters

The LP’s emphasis on human rights, democratic values, and social justice has found renewed support among younger and progressive voters.

Lawyer Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno, a distinguished human rights lawyer, educator, and democracy advocate, now with Akbayan Party-List, also made a successful bid for public office (House of Representatives) after two failed Senate runs.

Demographic shift?

Is this a sign of shifting voter demographics, or an indication of a growing appetite for policy-driven leadership?

These developments suggest that by addressing contemporary issues and engaging with a broader electorate, the LP is not only reestablishing its presence but also adapting to the evolving landscape.

Whether or not this translates into electoral gains for LP that can be sustained beyond 2028 (presidential elections) remains to be seen.

Takeaways