In a surprising move, former Vice President Leni Robredo endorsed two senatorial candidates supported by her political rival, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., namely Manny Pacquiao and Benhur Abalos.
Robredo, who is running for Naga City mayor, expressed strong support for both candidates, describing Pacquiao as a trustworthy man and noting her history of working with Abalos, who assisted Naga City after Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in 2024.
Despite their rivalry in the 2022 elections, Robredo and Pacquiao have now campaigned together in Naga City, a strategy central to her presidential bid.
The endorsement of Abalos, Marcos’ former interior secretary, came after multiple meetings between him and Robredo.
This unexpected move follows the breakdown of the Uniteam alliance between Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, who have since become bitter political rivals.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 25, 2025
