Luke Espiritu Criticizes Robredo’s Support for Pacquiao and Abalos
LUKE ESPIRITU – The labor leader and senatorial candidate publicly questioned former Vice President Leni Robredo’s endorsement of Manny Pacquiao and Benhur Abalos for the 2025 senatorial elections.
In a statement released on April 24, Espiritu expressed his confusion over why Robredo chose to support these candidates, especially considering that many of his supporters were also loyal followers of Robredo. While Espiritu clarified that he was not upset about not receiving Robredo’s endorsement, he made it clear that he did not believe Pacquiao and Abalos deserved any special privileges for her backing.
Espiritu’s remarks followed Robredo’s endorsement of Pacquiao and Abalos on April 23 during an event in Naga City, where she is campaigning for mayor. Both Pacquiao and Abalos are part of the senatorial slate of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., a political rival of Robredo in the 2022 presidential race. This endorsement raised concerns, particularly among Robredo’s loyal supporters, known as “kakampinks,” who had rallied behind her in the previous elections.
Despite the potential backlash from her supporters, Robredo defended her decision to endorse Pacquiao and Abalos. She highlighted Pacquiao’s trustworthiness and kindness, emphasizing his commitment to the public. Additionally, she spoke fondly of her long-standing friendship with Abalos, praising his selfless aid during Typhoon Kristine.
Political analyst Jean Encinas-Franco speculated that Robredo’s endorsement was likely a strategic move to garner support in the Bicol region and among her broader base of followers across the country. Robredo, confident in her choices, maintained that her endorsements were rooted in genuine respect and her established relationships with both candidates.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Philippine elections are scheduled for May 12, 2025. Voters will elect 12 new senators, all 317 district representatives, 63 party-list members, and thousands of local officials, including governors, mayors, and councilors.