MANILA — Human rights lawyer Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno, who was earlier considered as a potential opposition candidate for the Senate, will now pursue a seat in the House of Representatives as the first nominee of Akbayan Partylist.
Diokno, formerly associated with the Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino, recently joined Akbayan Party, explaining that the decision was aimed at ensuring only one candidate represents each opposition party in the senatorial race.
Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him, Diokno took to social media, stating, “It is an honor to represent [Akbayan] and push for its principles. We shall buckle down on protecting the welfare of the Filipino people, upholding our democracy, and holding the corrupt accountable.”
As the leader of the Free Legal Assistance Group, Diokno has dedicated decades to providing pro bono legal support in human rights cases and offers legal advice through social media platforms.
Back in February, Diokno emphasized his continued desire to serve, noting, “The desire to serve is always there, and I’m ready and willing to serve in any capacity — both in my private capacity, which I’m doing today, and as a public servant.”
In the 2022 senatorial race, Diokno garnered 9.8 million votes, a significant increase from the 6.3 million votes he received in the 2019 midterm elections.
Akbayan Partylist also announced that Rep. Percival Cendaña, who recently took his oath in the House, will serve as the second nominee, meaning he could step in as a substitute if Diokno withdraws or secure a seat if Akbayan wins enough votes.
Diokno’s nomination leaves the traditional opposition tied to the Liberal Party with two senatorial candidates: former Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan of the LP and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV of KNP.
Meanwhile, the administration-backed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, which includes the country’s major political parties, has revealed a complete 12-member Senate slate.
The Makabayan coalition, currently holding three seats in the House, has introduced 10 Senate candidates, including ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, former Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño, Kilusang Mayo Uno Secretary General Jerome Adonis, and Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas Chair Danilo Ramos.
Labor leaders Leody de Guzman and Luke Espiritu, along with labor lawyer Sonny Matula, have also declared their intentions to run for Senate in the 2025 elections.