House of Representatives (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

Ako Bicol Party-list is pulling away from the rest of the pack in terms of voter preference, if the results from the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted from March 29 to April 5, 2025 are any indication.

Based on the results, topnotcher Ako Bicol Party-list garnered a whopping 53.87 percent voter preference--45 percentage points more than the second placed 4Ps Party-list.

At stake in getting the top spot is the sole privilege of gaining the maximum three seats in the House of Representatives.

The survey results show Ako Bicol outpacing national 4Ps and fellow Bicol-based groups Ang Probinsyano and Bicol Saro. It remains the dominant regional political organization, with significantly higher support across Albay’s three congressional districts.

Ako Bicol’s first nominee is Rep. Zaldy Co, who has spent most of the current 19th Congress as the Committee on Appropriations chairman.

The  second nomine, former Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. is the second nominee. Garbin, a lawyer, has reaffirmed the party’s goal of pushing for constitutional reforms to attract more foreign investment.

Founded in Legazpi City, Albay after Typhoon "Reming", Ako Bicol began as SOS Bicol, a rescue and livelihood non-government organization (NGO).

It became a political party in 2010 and has since consistently secured seats in the House of Representatives, earning national recognition in 2010 and 2016 after topping the party-list race.

Over the years, Ako Bicol has remained a strong advocate for disaster resilience, education, and regional development. 

Under the party-list system, 20 percent of House seats are reserved for sectoral groups representing marginalized sectors or regional interests. To gain a seat, groups must secure at least 2 percent of the national vote.

Ako Bicol’s commanding position in Albay reflects its deep grassroots support and sustained presence in local governance.