Albay 1st district Rep. Edcel Lagman (Facebook)

Liberal Party (LP) President Albay 1st district Rep. Edcel Lagman emphasized on Friday, Jan. 19, the party’s “renewed sense of purpose” on the occasion of its 78th founding anniversary.

“The Liberal Party of the Philippines has been a beacon of democratic liberalism, an unwavering advocate of social justice, and a steadfast champion of good governance for almost eight decades as it celebrates its 78th founding anniversary today,” Lagman said in a statement.

“Since its foundation in 1946, the Liberal Party has remained at the forefront of promoting progressive ideals and forward-thinking leadership; fostering inclusive and accountable governance; and defending the rights and welfare of the Filipino people,” he noted.

The once-ruling party under the late former president Benigno S. Aquino III continues to make its mark as a leading figure in the opposition.

Lagman insists that while they face countless challenges with their numbers dwindling, "a hiatus is not an option".

“In fact, now is the time to perpetuate the legacies of LP. We may be now small in numbers but we are far from insignificant. For what we lack in numbers we compensate for with the unquestionable quality and excellence of our members,” he added.

With the party’s illustrious history, the LP chief said its members must “abide by, sustain, and enhance these invaluable legacies while intensifying our campaign for new members, encouraging participatory initiatives from the current membership, and fostering education on leadership, party discipline, and loyalty".

The veteran lawmaker stressed that the party has long been advocating for “genuine people empowerment and opposition to oppression and despotism”, referring to LP’s influential role as opposition in the martial law era under the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr. 

“We recognize that there is much work to be done but we are up to the challenge,” Lagman said.

“The Liberal Party will continue to engage in meaningful dialogue, forge strategic alliances, and mobilize its members to effect positive change in the lives of all Filipinos.

“As LP President, I extend my gratitude to all LP members, supporters, and partners who have stood with us throughout the years. Your unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have been instrumental in advancing our shared vision of a progressive and prosperous Philippines,” he further said.