The Liberal Party (LP) marked its 80th anniversary on Saturday evening (January 24) with a leadership transition and a declaration that it is preparing early for the 2028 presidential elections and beyond.
At the Bantayog ng mga Bayani, the country’s second-oldest political party elected a new set of officers during the meeting of its National Executive Council and Officers (NECO): Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima as Party Chairperson, Atty. Erin Tañada as Party President, Rep. Krisel Lagman as Executive Vice President, Rep. PA Umali as Treasurer, and Atty. Kit Belmonte as Secretary-General. Senator Kiko Pangilinan was named Party Chair Emeritus.
In a message responding to a question from the Liberal Youth, Pangilinan said that despite the turbulent political situation at home and abroad, the party would unite with other democratic forces moving toward 2028.
“Sa gitna ng pinakamalaking corruption scandal sa kasaysayan ng ating republika, sa pamamagitan ng pagsasanib pwersa ng pinakamalawak na hanay sa pagkilos, ang Halalan 2028, tulad ng Halalan 2025, at hihigit pa, atin ang 2028 (Amid the biggest corruption scandal in the history of the republic, by joining forces with the broadest range of actions, 2028 Elections, as the 2025 elections and beyond, 2028 is ours).”
The highest ranking LP member who was also the running-mate of Leni Robredo in the 2022 elections said that the party’s 80-year history shows its ability to survive by learning and adapting to the challenges of each era: “Pinapatunayan ng ating kasaysayan: Hindi tayo nagpapasiil sa mga hamon ng panahon.”
Newly elected LP Chairperson De Lima, who was maligned, falsely accused, and detained for nearly seven years under the Duterte administration, called for discipline in political work — including legislative action, oversight, and accountability in Congress — in cooperation with like-minded district and party-list groups advocating for marginalized sectors such as the urban poor, indigenous peoples, and the LGBTIA+ community.
Allies present at the celebration included Akbayan Reps. Chel Diokno and Perci Cendaña, Kamanggagawa Rep. Elijah “Eli” R. San Fernando, Gabriel Rep. Sarah Elago, Kabataan Rep., and ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio. Kiko Dee, nephew of the late President Benigno Aquino III, also attended.
LP President Tañada said preparation for 2028 must begin now (“maaga at sistematikong paghahanda sa 2028”), with leadership that listens, builds linkages, and acts consistently.
“Magbago nang di sinusuko ang prinsipyo (To change without surrendering our principles),” he said, is the party’s commitment (“panata”).
In building the political force of the future, he added, “Walang iwanan. Walang maiiwan (No one will be left behind).”
Belmonte urged members to recognize the demands of the road ahead.
“Hindi lang ito pag attend sa rally, pag-blog, o showbiz, buhay na responsibilidad ito. Sinasaksak natin ang sarili sa kasaysayan, kasama ang mamamayan. Hinuhubog ang kasaysayan, para tunay na demokrasya ang manaig (Our quest is not just about attending rallies, blogging, or other showbiz stuff; this is about a living responsibility. We insert ourselves in history, together with the people. We shape history so that real democracy will prevail),” he said.
LP Secretary General Belmonte said the coming month would be filled with activities, including the 40th anniversary of EDSA People Power. He added that LP members cannot rest until meaningful, positive change is felt in the lives of Filipinos.
Responding on behalf of the Liberal Youth, Atty. Dino De Leon said the party’s work should extend beyond 2028, toward 2034 and 2040, so that ordinary Filipinos can irreversibly enjoy a life of dignity.