Caloocan City 2nd District Representative Egay Erice made it clear he will not align with the ruling coalition of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., even if his own Liberal Party (LP) decides to pursue a partnership with the administration.
In a chance interview on Tuesday, March 3, Erice dismissed speculation that LP was open to joining forces with Malacañang.
“Ako, hindi ako open. Personally, hindi ako open,” he said when asked about the rumors.
The veteran lawmaker explained his stance by drawing a direct comparison between the current president and his late father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., who ruled under Martial Law for nine years.
“I am not open to join the administration. Kasi ano eh, sobra na eh, sobra na. I’ve experienced the father, now I’m experiencing the son; parang wala namang pinag-iba,” Erice remarked.
He reiterated his position, saying:
“Definitely I will not be a part of any coalition with the administration.”
Asked what he would do if LP ultimately decides to coalesce with Marcos, Erice acknowledged the possibility but insisted it would not sway him.
“If they (LP) are willing to join them (administration), I will not be a part of it. Pero wala namang desisyon pa. Basta if they will join, I will not join them,”
he said.
Erice noted that LP has yet to make a final decision, emphasizing the party’s tradition of conscience voting.
“Wala pa namang final decision ang LP. Actually, pagka may mga issues, it’s always conscience vote sa LP,” he explained.
Despite his firm opposition to joining the administration, Erice said he does not see himself breaking away from the party.
Talks of political realignment have intensified following Vice President Sara Duterte’s February 18 announcement that she intends to run for president in the 2028 elections.