Magdalo eyes Gary Alejano as senatorial bet

MANILA, Philippines — The party-list group Magdalo Para sa Pagbabago is seriously considering fielding Rep. Gary Alejano as a viable senatorial candidate for the 2019 midterm national elections.

This was disclosed by Sen. Antonio Trillanes, a member of the group, during the weekly Kapihan sa Senado media forum.

“We at Magdalo are currently undergoing a selection process. We are having a series of consultations with our members nationwide, as well as with our allied sectors and organizations. We hope to come out with a final list of Magdalo party-list nominees and senatorial candidates on or before the Magdalo national convention,“ Trillanes said in response to a question on the possibility of endorsing a candidate.

Trillanes is on his final term as a senator. 

Like Trillanes, Alejano was also one of the soldiers who took a stand against corruption in government during the Oakwood siege in 2003.

Trillanes said Alejano is the group’s number one pick to field as a senatorial candidate.

“He has proven to be more than a competent lawmaker. He is like me. He fears no one. We need fearless people in the Senate. He is one of the respected members of Magdalo,” he said.

Alejano is also a highly decorated soldier who was recommended for the Medal of Valor for his acts of bravery during a rebel siege in Maguindanao in 2000. 

He is on his second term as Magdalo’s representative in the House of Representatives.