Aiming for 3 congressional seats

AIMING FOR 3 SEATS. The Tingog party-list kicks off its reelection bid in a three-day summit attended by more than 500 of its organizers and staff across the country beginning Thursday, Feb. 6 as they aim for three seats in the May 12, 2025 elections. Photo shows Rep. Jude Acidre, the group’s second nominee, in a huddle with their supporters. (TINGOG CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

PALO, Leyte – The Tingog party-list reaffirmed its commitment to public service and legislative action as it formally launched its bid for additional seats in this year’s midterm elections under the party-list system.

On Thursday, February 6, the party-list, founded by Leyte Congressman and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, began its three-day summit at the Leyte Academic Center. The event gathered more than 500 staff and local organizers from across the country.

Tingog officials expressed confidence that, given its strong performance in recent years, the party can secure at least three congressional seats in the May 12, 2025 elections.

The official campaign period for Senate and party-list candidates begins on February 11.
Rep. Jude Acidre, the party’s second nominee, highlighted Tingog’s transformation from a grassroots movement in Eastern Visayas into a national political force focused on governance and social service.

“Tingog started as a small voice from our region, but today, it has become a nationwide movement that listens, serves, and empowers the Filipino people,” Acidre said.

Since winning a seat in Congress in 2019, Tingog has expanded its reach, establishing 210 Tingog Centers across the country to deliver essential services. These centers have provided medical, educational, and financial assistance to thousands of Filipinos.

“From Ilocos Sur to Davao del Sur, Tingog Centers ensure that no Filipino is left behind. We have helped students stay in school, provided financial aid for medical emergencies, and made government services more accessible,” Acidre emphasized.

Beyond social services, the party has played a key role in shaping national policies.
In the past three years, Representatives Acidre and Yedda Romualdez, the party’s first nominee and wife of Speaker Romualdez, have authored nearly 500 bills and resolutions, 40 of which have become laws.

These include the SIM Registration Act, the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, and the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act, among others.

As Congress resumes sessions after the elections, Acidre stressed that Tingog remains focused on pushing for critical measures, including the Magna Carta of Children and other legislative initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities.

“Legislation should not just be about making laws but ensuring that every Filipino has a voice in shaping policies that directly impact their lives,” Acidre stated.

Apart from legislative work, Tingog is also committed to disaster response and healthcare initiatives.

The party has spearheaded relief operations in disaster-stricken areas and launched the Kalusugan Karavan, a mobile healthcare program that has served nearly 50,000 Filipinos across 50 locations.

As the party prepares for the upcoming elections, Acidre emphasized that Tingog’s mission remains steadfast.

“Tingog is not just a political party; it is a movement of service and change. Our goal is to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of status, has access to opportunities and a government that truly listens,” he declared.

He urged supporters to continue amplifying Tingog’s advocacy to ensure the party remains a strong voice in Congress and beyond.

“We have come a long way, but there is still more work to be done. Together, we will move forward in making the Philippines a better place for all.”

With its strong track record, the party is confident it can achieve its goal of securing three congressional seats in the May 12, 2025 elections.

Aside from Romualdez and Acidre, Tingog has named six other nominees, representing various regions across the country.

JOEY A. GABIETA