Despite conceding defeat, the progressive coalition Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan (Makabayan Bloc) did not hold back in expressing their grievances over the results of the 2025 midterm elections. In a press conference held on May 15, Makabayan leaders criticized the Marcos administration, the camp of Vice President Sara Duterte, and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) for what they claim were key factors in their electoral loss.
Makabayan President and senatorial aspirant Liza Maza led the criticisms, questioning the alleged inaction of both the administration and COMELEC in addressing persistent red-tagging against their candidates and supporters. Maza pointed particularly to attacks that supposedly originated from the Duterte camp, which she said contributed to the vilification and marginalization of progressive voices during the campaign period.
The group also raised concerns about the integrity of the automated election system, citing glitches and irregularities that they argue may undermine the credibility of the electoral process. Still, Maza emphasized that the bloc respects the will of the people, even as they call for reforms to protect democratic participation.
None of Makabayan’s 11 senatorial candidates made it into the top 12 in the partial and unofficial count. However, ACT Teachers Partylist and Kabataan Partylist appear poised to secure seats in the House of Representatives, keeping a progressive presence in Congress.
In a show of unity on the opposition front, Maza congratulated former Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, who are both poised to return to the Senate, as well as incoming Akbayan Partylist Rep. Chel Diokno and ML Partylist Rep. Leila de Lima, who will be part of the House prosecution team in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Makabayan bloc, while subdued in electoral success, vowed to continue championing people’s rights and democratic reforms both inside and outside the halls of power.