MANILA — Akbayan Party declared its organizational readiness to support Senator Risa Hontiveros should she pursue a presidential bid in the 2028 elections, citing growing public clamor for her leadership amid what it described as a governance crisis.

In a statement, the party said millions of Filipinos continue to seek a leader with “integridad, kakayahan, at malinaw na paninindigan” who can help rebuild and reform the country.

“Dahil dito, kinikilala ng Akbayan Party ang lumalakas na panawagan para kay Senator Risa Hontiveros bilang kandidato sa pagkapangulo sa 2028, at ang kanyang kahandaang tumindig bilang standard-bearer ng demokratikong oposisyon,” the group said.

Akbayan said it was formally declaring its “buong organisasyonal nitong kahandaan” for Hontiveros’ possible candidacy, alongside allied social movements, sectoral groups, and local and national leaders.

The party also highlighted Hontiveros’ legislative record, including measures related to maternity leave, patient protection, affordable medicine, and universal health care.

“Kasama natin lagi si Risa. Mula sa pagpapalawig ng maternity leave para sa mga working nanay, pagprotekta sa mga pasyente laban sa mga abusadong ospital, hanggang sa pagsusulong ng murang gamot at tunay na universal health care, dala niya ay kalinga, aksyon, at solusyon upang mapabuti ang ating mga buhay,” it said.

Akbayan described Hontiveros as a leader who remains firm in defending vulnerable sectors and confronting powerful figures.

“Hindi siya umaatras para sa mahihina, hindi siya natitinag sa harap ng makapangyarihan, at hindi siya tumitigil hangga’t may kailangang ipagtanggol,” the statement read.

The group also called on Filipinos to unite and continue striving for a better future despite ongoing hardships.

“Kaya muli tayong magkaisa at sama-samang umabante. Dahil ang bansang hindi umaatras ay bansang susulong sa magandang bukas,” it added.