Philippines’ Fourth‑Wind Candidates Keep the Race Alive
When the Manila media buzzed with rumors that one by one they might hop off the ballot, four contenders—Francisco Domagoso, Panfilo Lacson, Norberto Gonzales, and boxing legend Manny Pacquiao— announced they were staying in the game.
One Joint Press Conference, Two Big Statements
- All four met in a single live briefing on April 17, promising to target any move that could curtail the public’s options.
- They pledged to keep pushing their own campaigns while “standing firm for the electorate’s freedom to decide.”
- Pacquiao’s management confirmed he’ll stay steadfast, “never backing out despite the smear tactics” – all while he stayed out of the press room.
Why the Alliance Matters
Opinion polls show Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ahead, with Vice President Leni Robredo trailing in a distant second. The four said an attempt was underway to narrow choices to just the Marcos‑Robredo duel— Lacson hinted they’d been mobbing the field.
Domagoso’s Bold Call
Domagoso even went as far as urging Robredo to “make the ultimate sacrifice” and pull out to clear a path against Marcos. That’s a headline‑ready move, but the teams say it’s just one part of a larger plan.
Continuing the Fight
Despite the lead of the “Marcos” side, the four remain determined. “Each of us will keep campaigning,” they promised, “for the people to have genuine choices.” Their combined march is aimed at safeguarding the democratic balloting and smashing the rumor storm.
<img alt="" data-caption="Philippine capital's Mayor Francisco Domagoso poses after filing his certificate of candidacy for president in the 2022 national election, in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines, on Oct 4, 2021.
PHOTO: Reuters” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”1e6d45f3-e38a-48a0-bc4e-be40834ede35″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/18042022_Mayor%20Francisco%20Domagoso_reuters.jpg”/>
Political Drama Unfolds in Manila
“I’m calling for Leni to withdraw.” That’s the bombshell statement from former actor Domagoso, better known on the silver screen as Isko Moreno, as he throws a curveball at the political arena.
Domagoso isn’t just facing off with the Marcos family; he’s striking a deal that feels less like a plea and more like a hard bargain. According to Lacson, he wasn’t the lone voice urging Leni that—
Key Points of the Controversial Call
- Domagoso’s call for Leni’s withdrawal is aimed at throttling the Marcoses’ political push.
- Lacson alleges a back‑door exchange: “in exchange for financial and other considerations,” purportedly to draw supporters away.
- Both figures drop hints that they’re pulling in political allies with a mix of bravado and financial flavor.
Why It’s Stirring the Pot
The Philippine political scene isn’t new to campaigns, but this pairing of charisma and sly bargaining feels like a theatrical plot twist. If the rumors are true, a subtle game of “who can pay who” is unfolding behind the headlines.
Although concrete evidence is scarce, the inner conversation suggests the stakes are high, and players are ready to set the board the way they want it. Whether you’re rooting for Democracy or Husky Backers, the drama’s just getting started.
<img alt="" data-caption="Philippine Senator Panfilo Lacson delivers a message after filing his certificate of candidacy for president in the 2022 national election, in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines, on Oct 6, 2021.
PHOTO: Reuters” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”d51365b1-c4d1-4e64-a607-aac1ea06e56e” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/18042022_lascon_reuters.jpg”/>
Robredo’s Campaign Isn’t Backing Away
Even as the whistleblowing chatter swirls, Robredo’s team is standing firm. You’d think after a few shaky weeks a candidate might pick up the phone and say “I’m out,” but that’s not the case here.
Why a “Time of Great Momentum” Matters
Barry Gutierrez, the spokesperson with a knack for turning words into slogans, fired a statement that’s already been buzzing through political circles:
- Three weeks are left until Election Day.
- It’s “a time of great momentum for our people’s campaign.”
- Despite heat from those calling for a withdrawal, the camp is locked in.
The Quiet Yet Firm Resistance
Data shows that a campaign can only thrive if the “camp fires on all cylinders.” And Robredo’s team refuses to let the winds of pressure sway them. They’re out here building, training, and sharpening their edge for the big day.
What’s Next?
- Strategic rallies in key provinces.
- More ground-level talks—no “talking politics” in schools.
- Statistical crunch: 3-week timeline at its peak.
In short, if you think she’s wavering, just remember: a campaign that lets fear dictate its every move is a tired circus. Robredo’s team has kept the tent tight and the hope alive. They’re playing the game the same way—out loud, loud‑speakers, and with a bit of charisma to keep the crowds engaged.
