The Liberal Party of the Philippines announced new leadership appointments during its National Executive Council and Officers (NECO) meeting on Friday, signaling renewed focus ahead of the 2028 elections.
Senator Kiko Pangilinan was named party chair emeritus, while Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Representative Leila de Lima was designated chairperson.
Human rights lawyer and former Quezon 4th District Representative Erin Tañada was elected president.
Other appointments included Albay 1st District Representative Krisel Lagman as executive vice president, Oriental Mindoro 2nd District Representative Alfonso Umali Jr. as treasurer, and former Quezon City 6th District Representative Kit Belmonte as secretary-general.
In his speech, Pangilinan reaffirmed the LP’s identity as an anti-political dynasty, anti-authoritarian, and pro-democracy party. He expressed confidence in the party’s ability to compete strongly in future elections.
“Sa pamamagitan ng pagsasanib-puwersa ng pinakamalawak na hanay sa pagkilos, ang halalan 2028, tulad ng halalan 2025, at hihigit pa—atin ang 2028. Nasa ating mga kamay, nasa ating nagkakaisang mga kamay, para ipanalo ito,” Pangilinan said.
He also highlighted the party’s history of standing firm against authoritarian rule and defending democratic freedoms.
“Kahit hindi uso, lumaban tayo para sa katotohanan at para sa karapatang pantao. Hindi tayo umatras. Hindi tayo nagpapasailalim sa banta sa dignidad, banta sa buhay, at banta sa kalayaan,” he said.
“Lumaban ang Partidong Liberal sa malupit na diktadura. Lumaban para sa kalayaang pumili ng mga pinuno ng bayan. Hindi tayo nagpapasailalim sa mga hamon ng panahon,” Pangilinan added.
The new leadership team is expected to strengthen the party’s organization and prepare for upcoming electoral battles, with emphasis on unity, principles, and democratic values.