4 re-electionists in Liberal Party's senatorial slate

MANILA, Philippines — Four re-electionist senators are in the initial lineup of the Liberal Party (LP) for the 2016 national elections.

Senate President Franklin Drilon, Sen. Ralph Recto, Sen. Teofisto "TG" Guingona III and former Sen. Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan are among the senatorial candidates of the party.

The party's standard-bearer Manuel "Mar" Roxas II confirmed that former Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla will also run for senator.

"Hindi ko gustong pangunahan ang ating pangulo at ang ating partido dahil dadaan pa ito sa pormal na proseso," Roxas told members of the press in a televised interview.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino may also be included in the LP's senatorial slate, reports say.

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao are also speculated to join the Senate race under the administration party.

Pacquiao, however, was seen with Vice President Jejomar Binay during the launch of the United Nationalist Alliance as the major opposition party for the 2016 elections.

The ruling LP is set to reveal its vice presidential candidate and complete senatorial slate on September 28.

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