Senator Risa Hontiveros reaffirmed on Wednesday that she still considers Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino as allies, even after their recent move to the Senate majority bloc.
Speaking at a press briefing on July 31, Hontiveros emphasized that political cooperation remains possible, especially on shared policy goals.
“We and our parties are still allies. On issues where our opinions align, there is still a possibility to work together, even here in the Senate,” she said.
Hontiveros also expressed openness to collaborating with her former minority bloc colleagues, noting that expanding the opposition’s reach remains a priority.
“From our united five-member minority, there is a possibility that we can invite other colleagues to work with us — including the two of them,” she added.
Despite the recent shifts in Senate affiliations, the senator made it clear that her efforts will continue to align with the broader opposition movement, not only within the chamber but also in public spaces.
“My priority, from within the united minority, is to continue working to strengthen the opposition outside the Senate,” she said.
Hontiveros concluded by stressing that the door to cooperation is still open, especially when it comes to common advocacies.
