Akbayan Citizens’ Action Party, more commonly known as Akbayan, is currently leading the 2025 party-list race with a strong showing in the ongoing vote count. As of the latest partial and unofficial results, Akbayan has emerged as the frontrunner among party-list groups, a testament to its enduring influence in Philippine politics.
Founded in 1998, Akbayan was established through a coalition of various civil society organizations, social democrats, and grassroots movements. The party was formed with a clear vision — to challenge traditional patronage politics in the Philippines and to promote inclusive democratic reforms. Unlike traditional political parties dominated by powerful families, Akbayan positioned itself as a voice for the marginalized, advocating for the rights of workers, women, youth, and other vulnerable sectors.
Legislative achievements and policy advocacy
Over the years, Akbayan has been instrumental in pushing for significant laws that have shaped Philippine society. Among their notable legislative victories are:
- The Reproductive Health and Responsible Parenthood Act: A landmark law that ensures access to reproductive health services and education for all Filipinos.
- The Marcos Compensation Act: Providing compensation to human rights victims during the Martial Law era under the Marcos regime.
- The Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act: The first law of its kind in Asia, criminalizing forced disappearances and protecting the rights of victims.
- The Kasambahay Act: A law that protects the rights and welfare of domestic workers, granting them access to fair wages, benefits, and legal protections.
Akbayan’s legislative track record reflects its commitment to social justice, human rights, and democratic governance. The party has consistently worked to ensure that laws are designed to protect the marginalized and empower ordinary Filipinos.
Key figures behind Akbayan
Akbayan has been home to notable progressive leaders and advocates who have played a significant role in Philippine politics:
- Risa Hontiveros: A former Akbayan representative who is now a senator, known for her advocacy on women’s rights, health, and social justice.
- Walden Bello: An economist, human rights advocate, and former party-list representative who has been a vocal critic of authoritarianism and economic inequality.
- Etta Rosales: A veteran human rights advocate who served as chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and played a key role in the passage of the Marcos Compensation Act.
- Ronald Llamas: A former presidential adviser on political affairs and a staunch advocate of democratic reforms.
Akbayan is not just a party of seasoned politicians. It also actively engages the youth through its youth wing, Akbayan Youth, which encourages young Filipinos to participate in political activism, environmental sustainability, and social justice initiatives. This focus on youth engagement has allowed Akbayan to maintain a fresh and dynamic presence in Philippine politics.
