THE MAKABAYAN bloc, a coalition of progressive party-lists, on Tuesday officially endorsed 10 more senatorial candidates who, they said, would expand the opposition and forge wider unity.  

“We express our support to them because of their track record of working with Makabayan on several important issues and in the fight of the people,” the coalition said in Filipino via Facebook live.  

Among those they endorsed are three incumbent lawmakers: Senator Leila M. de Lima for her advocacy on human rights and the country’s sovereignty; Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” N. Hontiveros-Baraquel for prioritizing women’s rights, overseas Filipino workers, the urban poor, LGBT community, and farmers, among others; and House Deputy Speaker Lorna Regina “Loren” B. Legarda for her stand on peace talks and support to the environment, women and education sectors.  

Sorsogon Governor Francis Joseph “Chiz” G. Escudero was also among the endorsed candidates as he seeks to create a law to compensate human rights victims during the martial law era.  

Former government officials were also included, such as Jejomar C. Binay who plans to create legislation protecting human rights and civil liberties, and Teddy B. Baguilat, Jr. who fights for environmental protection and indigenous peoples rights.   

Others in the list are: human rights lawyers Jose Manuel “Chel” I. Diokno and Renecio “Luke” Espiritu; lawyer Alex L. Lacson who aims to counter corruption, and political dynasties; and Federation of Free Workers President Jose Sonny G. Matula.  

Makabayan has previously announced their support for senatorial candidates Neri J. Colmenares, a human rights lawyer, and labor leader Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog. — Alyssa Nicole O. Tan 

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