America’s Perspective (Revised May 9, 2024)   — The Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, a coalition of senatorial candidates in the Philippines, recently expressed their confidence in securing the overwhelming support of Negros Oriental in the upcoming May midterm elections. This bid comes as the administration-tokens debate intensifies, mirroring the high-stakes political environment seen in the U.S. during midterm elections.

The coalition’s campaign visit to the Mariano Perdices Coliseum in DUMAGUETE CITY, a province in Central Visayas, underscored their determination to replicate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s landslide victory in 2022. Aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s landslide victory in the second-most populous province in Central Visayas. Similarly strong showings are often seen in American politics, such as the 2022 midterm elections, where high-profile incumbents and their allies sought to solidify their influence.

Experience and Track Record

During a press conference, former Senate President Tito Sotto emphasized the coalition’s track record as a key factor in gaining public support. He stated, “If you look at the lineup, the 12 candidates of Alyansa, we are confident that the people of Negros Oriental will see the experience and the help that we’ve given the country.”

To gain the voters’ support, Sotto said they would remind the people ‘of what we have done for them and what we are able to do again, more of what we have done already.’

In the U.S., candidates often rely on their past achievements and legislative records to garner support. For example, many politicians highlight their voting records on key issues like healthcare and education in campaign mailers and digital ads, much like Sotto’s approach.

economy

Former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos echoed Sotto’s sentiments, asserting that the coalition’s performance would speak for itself. He highlighted the Marcos administration’s efforts in enhancing peace and security in Negros Oriental, noting that the province has seen significant economic growth and increased public satisfaction.

“You compare peace and order then to now, it’s very different. The economy is growing, the people are very happy. And that is way more important than anything else. That will speak for the record of the president and that will speak for the platforms of Alyansa.”
Benhur Abalos

These statements resonate with American voters who often prioritize economic stability and security when choosing their representatives. In the U.S., economic performance at both national and local levels frequently takes center stage, similar to how peace initiatives are used in the Philippines’ political campaigns..

Public Support and Welfare

Act-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo expressed confidence in their ability to secure the province’s votes. He mentioned the legislation they have enacted, contributing to its historical turnout rate. Former Senator Manny Pacquiao also highlighted their ticket’s advantage in understanding the needs of the people, particularly in addressing poverty through job creation and livelihood programs. This emphasis on welfare aligns with many American political campaigns, which often prioritize economic opportunities and anti-poverty measures.

“So, the Alyansa program is for the welfare of the Filipino people. It will focus on providing jobs and livelihoods, businesses for small families. So that is what we are promoting because poverty is one of the main problems of our country.”
Manny Pacquiao

Alyansa’s focus on job creation, small businesses, and community welfare mirrors many small-town, mid-2024 senatorial campaigns in Connecticut, USA, emphasizing a grassroots approach similar to that seen in local U.S. elections.