Pro-democracy coalition eyes unified slate for 2022

MANILA, Philippines — A coalition of former government officials is eyeing a single slate of national candidates for the 2022 elections to challenge administration bets and President Duterte’s choice for successor.

Set for formal launching on Thursday, the 1Sambayan coalition seeks to unite the “fragmented democratic forces in the country” and block the poll victory of an heir chosen by President Duterte.

Among those identified to be part of coalition were former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio, former ombudsman and SC associate justice Conchita Carpio-Morales, former foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, former education secretary Armin Luistro and anti-corruption activist Albert “Paring Bert” Alejo.

The group supposedly represents democratic forces spanning the Philippine political spectrum, with different parties and groups agreeing to abide by the selection process for a unified slate.

According to 1Sambayan, Duterte would have lost had there been fewer candidates in the 2016 elections, noting that he won by a mere plurality and not by a majority of votes cast.

“The Philippines in 2022 cannot risk falling under another administration similar to Duterte’s, whose failed response to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with its unsound policies on major political, security and economic matters, have set the Philippines back, causing it to relapse into the ‘Sick Man of Asia’,” the group said.

“The democratic forces must then rally in order to block a victory by Duterte’s heir, whomever it will be. A brand new, competent leadership with integrity must take over when Duterte steps down next year,” it added.

The convenors and members of the group will be formally introduced during the official launch at the Makati Sports Club on Thursday.