Navotas City lone district Rep. Toby Tiangco (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

LAOAG CITY--Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas campaign manager Navotas City lone district Rep. Toby Tiangco has explained what made this city the "strategic" campaign launch site for the administration's senatorial slate. 

The Centennial Arena here is set to host Alyansa's campaign kickoff, to be attended by no less than President Marcos himself. 

The arena---billed the Northern Luzon’s largest indoor venue--seats at least 5,000 people. 

Tiangco said the decision to launch the Alyansa campaign in Ilocos Norte--the Marcos family's stronghold--highlights the administration’s strategy of consolidating support in its bailiwicks while signaling confidence as the campaign gains momentum. 

“This is not just a campaign launch—it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to build on the progress we have made under President Marcos Jr.,” Tiangco said. 

“Ilocos Norte has always been a cradle of transformative leadership, and from here, we are sending a message: to continue delivering results for every Filipino,” added the veteran congressman. 

Comprising the Alyansa slate are former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III; former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Benhur Abalos; former Senators Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao; Senators Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Francis Tolentino; Makati City Mayor Abby Binay; House Deputy Speaker Las Piñas City lone district Rep. Camille Villar; and House Deputy Majority Leader ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo.  

With 434,114 registered voters, Ilocos Norte remains a critical base for the administration, which is looking to leverage Ilocano unity to build momentum ahead of the mid-terms elections on May 12. 

The province delivered 356,221 out of 380,721 actual votes for Marcos in 2022, reflecting an overwhelming 87.7 percent voter turnout—one of the highest in the country. 

The kickoff rally is expected to set the tone for the administration’s campaign, with the candidates outlining their plans for economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and social welfare programs—all aimed at sustaining the gains of the Marcos administration. 

“The people have seen the results of our leadership, and we hope to earn their support again. We will bring our message of unity and development across the country, starting here in Ilocos Norte," Tiangco said.