With the 2019 midterm elections just a few days away, it's crucial that voters are well informed of the choices they will make when they march to the polling booths on May 13. As such, The LaSallian provides a closer look at the stances and credentials of the 24 senatorial candidates who led in the most recent Pulse Asia survey below, in hopes that voters can better assess their potential future leaders. Articles covering different aspects of the elections are also found here in this slideshow to help readers see just how important it is to exercise their right to vote.
For the complete list of candidates, visit comelec.gov.ph/2019ListOfCandidates
B.A., Political Science, Boston College
Chairperson, MTRCB (2010-2012)
Senator (2013-present)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Poe voted for the TRAIN Law and blamed executive agencies for their inability to execute cash assistance for the marginalized from the rise in product prices. | |
| Relations with China | Poe, on stronger relations with China: "It’s time that we assert our sovereignty and protect our territory. We value the good relations with China, but friends protect their allies, not take advantage of them", the senator said in April after a bilateral meeting between President Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping. | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Poe said on Federalism: “Federalism is not a ‘magic pill’ to address all of our country’s problems. If we wanted to strengthen local autonomy, some issues are better addressed through amending the Local Government Code.” | |
| Political Dynasties | Poe was one of the senators that was in favor of Senate Bill 1765, or the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2018. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Poe believed that lowering the age of criminal liability is anti-poor and that the families who are affected "have no meaningful access to legal services." | |
| Divorce | Poe voiced agreement with Senator Koko Pimentel saying that divorce must be thoroughly studied before it could be legislated into Philippine Law. | |
| Death Penalty | Poe, on death penalty: "Para sa akin, bago natin pag-usapan ang death penalty, ayusin muna natin ang sistema ng hudikatura sa ating bansa.” (For me, before we talk about [the] death penalty, let’s fix the country’s justice system first.) | |
| ML in Mindanao | Poe, on declaring ML in Mindanao: "In our Constitution, you can't declare martial law just because there's a threat. There should be rebellion. There should be invasion. So in areas where those things haven't happened yet, constitutionally there may be a question with regards to the legality of that." | |
| Contractualization | Poe is a co-author of Senate Bill No. 1826, or Security of Tenure law, currently pending its second reading. She has also previously voiced out opposition to “endo”. | |
| Same-sex marriage | Poe has been endorsed as a ‘pro-family’ candidate by the Pro-Life Philippines Foundation due to her stance opposing same-sex marriage. While she has not recently commented on the matter, she previously stated that instead of marriage, same-sex couples may be granted legal benefits through other means. |
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts, University of the Philippines Los Banos
None
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Excise tax to be placed on products that harm the health, transparency on oil acquisition | |
| Relations with China | NO DIRECT COMMENT | NO DIRECT COMMENT |
| Federalism/Charter Change | In an interview with ANC in February, Jiggy Manicad expressed his support for Federalism as long as political dynasties will be barred and term limits upheld. In GMA7's Senatorial Face-Off, Manicad also said that federalism will help regions to utilize their own revenue. |
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| Political Dynasties | In an interview with ANC in February, Jiggy Manicad expressed his support for Federalism as long as political dynasties will be barred and term limits upheld. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Should be lowered, masterminds of crime syndicates should be tracked down, children must be in reformation centers where they could be given education and the opportunity to learn new skills | |
| Divorce | He thinks that the Filipino family should be instead "strengthened" | |
| Death Penalty | In GMA7's Senatoriable Face-Off 2019, Jiggy Manicad raised a placard in approval of the death penalty for heinous crimes. In an interview with ANC in February, Manicad also said that the death penalty must also be ascribed to corrupt politicians. |
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| ML in Mindanao | In GMA7's Senatoriable Face-Off 2019, Manicad raised a placard indicating his approval of Martial Law extension in Mindanao. | |
| Contractualization | In ABS-CBN's Harapan 2019 Senatorial Town-Hall Debate, Manicad declared "endo" as a form of exploitation and called for its removal not only in the government but in the media industry as well. | |
| Same-sex marriage | He is for equal rights for LGBT. Manicad thinks that the Philippines is not yet ready for this because of the cultures and religions that dominate the country. |
No college degree
None
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Relations with China | Aguilar had previously said that he was not bothered by China’s relationship towards the Philippines. "Ang maganda po sa China, wala po silang record ng pangangamkam ng lupa na may lupa," he said. "So hindi po ako natatakot sa Chinese." (What’s nice about China is that they have no record of taking land from other nations. So I am not scared of the Chinese.) | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Aguilar had been pushing for a shift to a federal form of government during the first national elections after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. | |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Lowering of MACR | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Divorce | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Death Penalty | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| ML in Mindanao | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Contractualization | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment | No direct comment |
No college degree
Senator (1995-2007, 2010-2016)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Has vowed to remove diesel taxes under TRAIN if he is elected. Nonetheless, he believes that the fuel tax hike is the only thing wrong with the tax reform law. | |
| Relations with China | Osmeña expressed his approval of having strong diplomatic Stronger relations with China given that such does not compromise the country's sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea. “We do not have the military might of China. Therefore, I believe we are not in a position to be confrontational." he stressed. |
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| Federalism/Charter Change | Believes the country will not benefit from federalism. He also reasoned out that dividing the country into federal states based on regional divisions will leave most regions "underwater" as only NCR and Regions III and IV-A are self-sustaining. | |
| Political Dynasties | He opposes political dynasties despite being part of a political clan himself. He added that the Senate passed an anti-dynasty bill three times while he was a senator. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Has supported lowering the MACR to 12 because "parents do not pay attention to their children and the children are being used by drug lords for drugs." He added that children will be released anyway if they are arrested. This is despite voting for raising the MACR from nine to 15 when he was in office. | |
| Divorce | Stated that he will vote for the divorce bill if he is elected, explaining that families are already separating and being destroyed even without divorce and that such separation is "harder" without the measure because they're still "tied together." | |
| Death Penalty | Stated during a CNN senatorial forum that he would not support the Death Penalty drug-related crimes | |
| ML in Mindanao | NO DIRECT COMMENT | NO DIRECT COMMENT |
| Contractualization | Asserted that endo (short-term employment) must be stopped "We have to end 'endo.' That is not fair because the people being hired for 5 months can't get extra money because they are only temporary," | |
| Same-sex marriage | Supports granting civil union rights for same-sex couples. |
Management Engineering (Ateneo de Manila University, summa cum laude) completed the Executive Education Program on Public Policy and Leadership (Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University)
Senator (2016-present)
Former National Youth Commission Chairman and CEO (2003-2006)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Urged for suspension of TRAIN 1 in the past, now wants amendment to stop excise tax on fuel | |
| Relations with China | Wanted harassment of Filipino fishermen by Chinese vessels to be investigated by Senate, also wanted probe into Chinese presence in local airspace, wanted further inquiry into the country's joint exploration venture with China | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Used to be open to Federalism but changed his mind due to the issue of trust in those who will handle the change in constitution; Should charter change be necessary, he prefers a constitutional convention format rather than a constitutional assembly | |
| Political Dynasties | Voted in favor of the Anti-Political Dynasty Law; filed SB 1688 in 2018 (Anti-Political Dynasty Act); coverage of his version of the law is third degree of consaguinity or affinity | |
| Lowering of MACR | Called the move to lower MACR as crazy, immoral, and cruel; wants government to go after crime syndicates and parents who are the reason why children become in conflict with the law, not the kids themselves | |
| Divorce | Even if the marriage is irreconcilable or abusive; he wants government to make annulment cheaper and more accessible to the public instead | |
| Death Penalty | Believes that it will not resolve the country's crime issues and is actually anti-poor | |
| ML in Mindanao | Opposed Martial Law extension; did not see it as necessary for Marawi's rebuilding; | |
| Contractualization | Is pushing for the passing of the Security of Tenure Bill in the Senate; also wants the government to stop practicing endo, particularly for state employees | |
| Same-sex marriage | Says yes but is ambiguous on the matter beyond his support of the Anti-Discrimination Bill |
Bachelor of Science in Economics, Major in Finance, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
*Wharton has confirmed his stay despite earlier accusations from Duterte
Congressman, 1st District of Capiz (1993-2000), Majority Floor Leader (1998-2000);
DTI Secretary (2000-2004)
*resigned November 2000 - January 2001 in the middle of Estrada ouster, reappointed by Arroyo;
Senator (2004-2010)
DOTC Secretary (2011-2012)
DILG Secretary (2012-2016)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Urged for suspension of TRAIN 1 in the past, now wants amendment to stop excise tax on fuel | |
| Relations with China | Wanted harassment of Filipino fishermen by Chinese vessels to be investigated by Senate, also wanted probe into Chinese presence in local airspace, wanted further inquiry into the country's joint exploration venture with China | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Used to be open to Federalism but changed his mind due to the issue of trust in those who will handle the change in constitution; Should charter change be necessary, he prefers a constitutional convention format rather than a constitutional assembly | |
| Political Dynasties | Voted in favor of the Anti-Political Dynasty Law; filed SB 1688 in 2018 (Anti-Political Dynasty Act); coverage of his version of the law is third degree of consaguinity or affinity | |
| Lowering of MACR | Called the move to lower MACR as crazy, immoral, and cruel; wants government to go after crime syndicates and parents who are the reason why children become in conflict with the law, not the kids themselves | |
| Divorce | Even if the marriage is irreconcilable or abusive; he wants government to make annulment cheaper and more accessible to the public instead | |
| Death Penalty | Believes that it will not resolve the country's crime issues and is actually anti-poor | |
| ML in Mindanao | Opposed Martial Law extension; did not see it as necessary for Marawi's rebuilding; | |
| Contractualization | Is pushing for the passing of the Security of Tenure Bill in the Senate; also wants the government to stop practicing endo, particularly for state employees | |
| Same-sex marriage | Says yes but is ambiguous on the matter beyond his support of the Anti-Discrimination Bill |
No Tertiary Education
Vice Governor, Pampanga (1992-1995)
Governor, Pampanga (1995-2004)
Senator (2004--2016)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Lowering of MACR | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| ML in Mindanao | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, De La Salle University
Mayor, San Juan City (2001-2010)
Congressman, San Juan City (2010-2013)
Senator (2013-Present)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Voted for the law in senate, but withdrew support for it after observing its effects on inflation and is now calling for its suspension "The economic managers should seriously review the TRAIN law given the upward trend of the numbers. They should assess whether the increase in inflation is still manageable. Otherwise, implementation of TRAIN 1 should be suspended and re-studied," he said. |
|
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue, but has urged prioritization of Filipino workers over Chinese workers, howeve | No direct comment on the issue, but has urged prioritization of Filipino workers over Chinese workers, however |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Political Dynasties | Despite being part of the clan of Manila mayor Joseph Estrada, Ejercito opposes Political dynasties bill on the grounds of service to his country. “>May pananagutan ako sa pamilya, pero ako po ay may pananagutan sa taumbayan (I have obligations to my family, but I also have my responsibility to the people.) he said. |
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| Lowering of MACR | Supports harsher punishment of Adults who abuse children rather than punishing the child themselves. "Sa aking experience bilang dating mayor, napansin ko na ito ay used, abused, at ginamit ng mga kriminal at minsan ng kanilang mga magulang mismo. kaya ako ay naniniwala na dapat nating buksan ang usapin, pag-aralan po natin. But age 9 is too low, masyado hong bata yan, meron akong anak na bata," (In my experience as a former mayor, I noticed that [children] are being used and abused by criminals and even their own parents, which is why I believe that we need to have an open mind and study this issue. But 9 years old is too low, they are too young, I have children that age) |
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| Divorce | Expressed concerns on the implementation of divorce in a fiercely Christian nation “The problem is that our country is still 80 to 90 percent Christian,” Ejercito said in an ambush interview on Wednesday. “We are not yet ready to accept yung ganyan, kasi (yung) belief natin on (the) sanctity of marriage and family. Maybe later on but probably at this time medyo mahihirapan pa,” he added. |
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| Death Penalty | Stated that he wants to have death penalty imposed on plunderers to discourages public officials from stealing in the future "Dapat lang nang hindi na tularan at huwag nang maulit muli," (It should be imposed so that no one will want to follow those who committed plunder and so that it won't happen again,) he stated. |
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| ML in Mindanao | Cautioned against prematurely ending Martial Law before the situation is resolved. “I would think so [there is a need to extend]. Kasi hindi rin siguro akalain — kapag hindi pa dumating yung actual situation, you cannot assess. You cannot really set deadlines, ” ( But you can’t really be sure unless the actual situation arrives,you cannot assess) |
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| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue, but has expressed support for the Anti-discrimination bill | No direct comment on the issue, but has expressed support for the Anti-discrimination bill |
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, University of the Philippines
Bachelor of Laws, Lyceum of the Philippines University
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | Jinggoy, on stronger relations with China: “We cannot go into war with China. Wala naman tayong kagamitan. Kailangan natin magkausap. Isantabi muna ang ruling the Arbitration court, mag-usap kung ano ang beneficial sa dalawang bansa,” he said. | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Calls himself an ally of the President. | |
| Political Dynasties | Estrada said that political families should not be prevented from holding public office, provided that they “serve with utmost integrity, dedication, and honesty.” | |
| Lowering of MACR | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Divorce | "In 2011, Estrada filed a bill that would refine the definition of “psychological incapacity” – a ground for nullifying marriage. He suggested that violent behavior, drug addiction, and infidelity be covered by the term." | |
| Death Penalty | Similar to Bong Revilla, Estrada supports death penalty, especially for government officials guilty of plunder. "Stealing money from the people should be considered a heinous crime," he said in Tagalog in an interview with CNN Philippines. | |
| ML in Mindanao | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | In the 8th LGBT Davao gathering, Estrada appealed to the audience to vote for him. In return, he promises to support LGBT advocacies, especially “the legalization of same sex marriage”. |
Associate in Arts, cum laude, Ateneo de Manila University
Bachelor of Laws, cum laude and Salutatorian, University of the Philippines College of Law
Masters in Law, Harvard Law School
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Enrile has said his first move as a senator, if elected, will be to revise taxation. He likewise asserted that TRAIN has to be reviewed and adjusted. Among his suggestions are amendments to excise taxes; although, he mentioned that he would not oppose TRAIN 2 or the second package of tax reforms. He, however, has not explicitly stated a categorical stand. |
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| Relations with China | Enrile posited that the Philippines should welcome China "reaching [out to] us," also saying that diplomacy is currently the only option for Filipinos. He maintained that the Philippines has no means of enforcing the arbitral ruling against China over the West Philippine Sea. | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | NO CATEGORICAL STAND Enrile said he favored "anything that will make something better for the country." He previously expressed his agreement with the concept of federalism but he had fiscal concerns about the country's financial capability to sustain the system. He also warned that the draft federal constitution did not have enough safeguards against dictatorship. He previously expressed that what truly urged him to run was finding errors in the draft charter. Enrile, however, had formerly given his support for the shift, saying in 2018 that the current form of government is "quite inefficient" and that changing the 1987 Constitution is long overdue, and in 2016 that federalism would be beneficial while also assuring that "there is no such thing as dictatorship in a democracy." | NO CATEGORICAL STAND |
| Political Dynasties | "Enrile called the move to pass an anti-political dynasty law ""impractical,"" adding that the anti-dynasty provision could not even be put in the Constitution. He reasoned that the function of a democracy is to let people decide their leaders, further questioning why they would be denied capable service from families. He, however, did not explicitly say that he is in favor of political dynasties. |
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| Lowering of MACR | Enrile said in a CNN forum that he would vote for a bill lowering the MACR to 13. | |
| Divorce | In a CNN forum, Enrile said he favors the legalization of divorce for irreconcilable or abusive marriages. | |
| Death Penalty | Recently, in an episode of his online show, Enrile expressed his opposition towards the death penalty. Likewise, he had also repeatedly voted against the measure in his history as a legislator. As a congressman, he was against the 1993 death penalty bill; as a senator, he also opposed lethal injections in 1996 and for the abolition of the measure in 2006. Enrile previously explained that the punishment contradicted his conscience and religious beliefs. | |
| ML in Mindanao | Enrile called the martial law in Mindanao "effective", justifying that there could have been more violence without it. He further asserted that the government must use violence to fight violence in dealing with terrorism. Nonetheless, he maintained that military rule is only an "initial mechanism to control the situation" and that it alone will not solve the problem. | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | In a CNN forum, Enrile said he supports granting civil union rights for same-sex couples. |
No Tertiary Education
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue.. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Lowering of MACR | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | Revilla stated that death penalty should be imposed on convicted plunderers; he was previously accused of plunder in relation to the pork barrel scam in 2013. | |
| ML in Mindanao | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
1992 Doctor of Medicine in De LaSalle college Medicine; 2001 specialty in cardiology and masters degree in Public Health (honorary) in UP Diliman; 1994-1996 studied at Manila Doctors Hospital, specializing in internal medicine
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Ong said that the taxes collected from TRAIN are needed for the government’s Build, Build, Build, Program. He also believes that the TRAIN Law reduced the taxes paid by employees “Kailangan nating ituloy ito dahil sa Build, Build, Build at dahil ang batas na ito, nabawasan [rin] ang buwis na binabayaran ng mga empleyado,” (We must continue this because of Build, Build, Build, and because due to this law, the taxes paid by employees has been reduced) |
|
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | “Oo, pwede natin subukan kung makakatulong ‘to sa bayan natin.” (Sure, we can try this if it will help our nation) | |
| Political Dynasties | Favors the imposition of term limits on public officials “Kailangan mayroong term limits para 'di maabuso.” (There's a need to have term limits to prevent abuse.) |
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| Lowering of MACR | He cites the lower minimum age of criminal liability in other countries as a precedent for changing it in the Philippines. “Ang average [minimum age of criminal liability] sa buong mundo is 11 years old. Sa US, Singapore, 7 years old. Sa Hong Kong, 10 years old. Sa South Korea, 14 years old pero binababa nila sa 13. Pero ibababa lang natin kung kumpleto na ‘yung Bahay Pag-Asa at hindi natin ilalagay sa kulungan.” (The average [minimum age of criminal liability] for the whole world is 11 years old. In the US and Singapore, it is 7 years old. In Hong Kong, 10 years old. In South Korea, 14 years old, but it has been lowered to 13. But we should only reduce the age once the Bahay Pag-Asa program is complete so that we do not place them in jail.) |
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| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | He believes that Death Penalty must be applied for heinous crimes | |
| ML in Mindanao | ||
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Ateneo de Manila University
Bachelor of Laws, Ateneo de Manila University Law School
Graduate Diploma in Public Administration, New York University Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
Master of National Security Administration, National Defense College of the Philippines
Master of Laws, with Merit (2nd Honours), University of London
Doctor of Judicial Science (Cand.), Tulane University Law School
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | In a radio interview on DZBB, Tolentino defended the passing of TRAIN Law, butting heads with fellow senatorial candidate Bam Aquino who opposed the measure. | |
| Relations with China | UNCLEAR During Harapan 2019: The ABS-CBN Senatorial Town Hall Debate, when asked to pick between China and the US on who he considered was a closer ally to the Philippines, Tolentino responded that the latter was closer to the country due to historical ties. | UNCLEAR During Harapan 2019: The ABS-CBN Senatorial Town Hall Debate, when asked to pick between China and the US on who he considered was a closer ally to the Philippines, Tolentino responded that the latter was closer to the country due to historical ties. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | During Harapan 2019: The ABS-CBN Senatorial Town Hall Debate, Tolentino confirmed that he would vote for Federalism. | |
| Political Dynasties | Tolentino, on political dynasties: “Everybody should have an access to public service. Besides, what is the definition of dynasty? Hayaan natin ang taumbayan na mamili kung sino ang gusto nilang mahalal. Nakasalalay ito sa puso at integridad [ng kandidato].” (Let us allow the people choose who they want elected. This is dependent on the integrity [of the candidate].) | |
| Lowering of MACR | Tolentino stated that he was in favor of the measure, but clarified that children in conflict with the law should be entered in a reformative justice system instead of being entered into a regular prison. | |
| Divorce | In a senatorial forum organized by CNN Philippines last December, Tolentino responded no when asked if he was in favor of divorce if a marriage is irreconcilable or abusive." | |
| Death Penalty | Tolentino said he was in favor of having death penalty meted out to drug traffickers and ringleaders. | |
| ML in Mindanao | Tolentino, on martial law in Mindanao: “I have to see the reasons, the rationale, behind the proposed extension but basing it on media reports, we have recent skirmishes in region 11, region 9. That perhaps, again as I mentioned a while ago, only the commander-in-chief has access to confidential intelligence information.” | |
| Contractualization | Tolentino, on contractualization: "Let us change the appropriate civil service regulations, we should have security of tenure. What I heard earlier was correct — we should strengthen the industrial sector, the manufacturing sector.” | |
| Same-sex marriage | In a senatorial forum organized by CNN Philippines last December, Tolentino responded yes when asked if he was in favor of granting same-sex couples legal rights in status under the current civil union bill. |
Bachelor of Laws, University of the Philippines College of Law
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Ateneo de Manila University
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III on Saturday said the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act could be amended to slowly remove the increase in the excise on oil products. “Our minds should be open to reviewing the TRAIN law, and if we imposed an excise tax on an item whose world price can’t be controlled, we should take a hands-off stance,” he said over radio station dwIZ. |
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| Relations with China | Pimentel, on Stronger relations with China: "Huwag tayo matakot sa China. Huwag tayo matakot sa East kasi ang Pilipinas, nasa East po tayo. These are our neighbors, marami tayong shared values sa kanila.” (Let us not be scared of China. Let us not be scared of the East because the Philippines is in the East. These are our neighbors, we have many shared values with them.) | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | In Favor of Federalism; As President of PDP Laban, it is Koko’s mission to bring the message of federalism to the Filipino people | |
| Political Dynasties | (2018) Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III expressed confidence Friday that the proposed anti-political dynasty law will be approved in the Senate after 13 senators signed a committee report recommending it. Whether the House of Representatives likes it or not, it would have “no choice” but to accept that political dynasties are on the way out, Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said on Friday. |
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| Lowering of MACR | NEUTRAL
“Pag-isipan and pag-usapan nang mabuting-mabuti, at ‘wag madaliin (It should be reviewed and discussed very carefully; it should not be rushed),” Pimentel said in a text message. Former Senate President Aquilino L. Pimentel III, however, dodged the question on whether he would support Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s advocacy to bring down the minimum age of criminal liability from 15 years old to nine years old. “I will have to think about it very well,” Pimentel said. |
NEUTRAL
“Pag-isipan and pag-usapan nang mabuting-mabuti, at ‘wag madaliin (It should be reviewed and discussed very carefully; it should not be rushed),” Pimentel said in a text message. Former Senate President Aquilino L. Pimentel III, however, dodged the question on whether he would support Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s advocacy to bring down the minimum age of criminal liability from 15 years old to nine years old. “I will have to think about it very well,” Pimentel said. |
| Divorce | Cold over the proposal to legalize the absolute divorce in the Philippines, saying that are already “remedies” in place for separating spouses. “Malabo siguro ang American style [divorce] na parang vending machine. Maglalagay ka lang ng piso, divorced ka na, malabo po yun. Huwag natin asahan na ganon (It is unlikely to pass an American-style divorce which is like a vending machine. You can’t just insert a coin and get divorced. That is unlikely. Let’s not expect it to happen),” the Senate leader said in a radio interview today. |
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| Death Penalty | “Flexible ako sa death penalty. My initial resistance to the death penalty is not based on religion, it’s just policy. Death penalty is a policy or a weapon or a tool of the State to control criminality and to impose law and order. Hindi naman based on religion yung aking stand e so I can change my mind,” | |
| ML in Mindanao | One of the 12 senators who voted for the third extension of Mindanao in December 2018 Asked if he would support the martial law extension, like Sen. Manny Pacquiao, Pimentel said: “Oo wala naman akong natatangap na negative report. Pag nagtatanong naman ako parang this is a benevolent martial law.” “Eh ako lumaki din ako sa time ng martial law na takot lahat. May curfew, takot magsalita. Sa Mindanao hindi daw. Wala eh. Walang effect – except that out of the camps ang mga military. That’s the only effect,” the Senate leader said. |
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| Contractualization | Reiterated the urgency of passing an "Anti-Endo" law, saying that a measure banning the hiring of workers for fixed-term arrangements or end of contract (endo) schemes should be considered "highest priority" before the May 2019 elections. One of the principal authors of Senate Bill 1826 or the "Security of Tenure and End of Endo Act of 2018," which was certified as urgent by President Rodrigo Duterte last September 2018. |
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| Same-sex marriage | NEUTRAL "Not likely" according to him. “Malayo pa sa radar, wala pa yun sa radar,” Pimentel said in a phone patch interview when asked about the possibility of allowing same sex marriage in the Philippines, following the US Supreme Court decision allowing same sex marriage in all its states. |
NEUTRAL "Not likely" according to him. “Malayo pa sa radar, wala pa yun sa radar,” Pimentel said in a phone patch interview when asked about the possibility of allowing same sex marriage in the Philippines, following the US Supreme Court decision allowing same sex marriage in all its states. |
Immaculate Conception College, BS Medical Technology
Davao Doctor’s College, BS Biology
University of the Philippines’ National College of Public Administration and Governance, Special Course on Effective Legislation and Governance
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | Urged Chinese/Israeli exploration of the Ligusan Marsh
"I think kailangan natin ibang country dito to explore the methane gas. Actually, may pumunta na doon na taga-China at taga-Israel," (I think we need our countries here to explore the methane gas. Actually, the Chinese and the Israelis already went there) he said on ANC's Headstart Wednesday.
Also believes that Chinese Nationals can be welcomed into the country if they have Proper Documentation "Kung kumpleto ang dokumento kailangang i-welcome sila. Tayo naman wine-welcome din nila," |
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| Federalism/Charter Change | Is conformity with the Pro-federalism stance of his party PDP-Laban | |
| Political Dynasties | Denied being a part of a Political dynasty and Blamed Maguindanao’s problems on the war in Mindanao rather than the effects of political dynasties “Ang cause ng poverty sa Mindanao, especially Maguindanao province, is due to mga away-away at saka mga giyera na 'di masolusyunan ng ating gobyerno," (The cause of poverty in Mindanao, especially in Maguindanao province, is due to the fighting and wars that aren't being solved by our government.) he said |
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| Lowering of MACR | Preferred that the MACR be 9 years old instead of 12 citing that even 7 year olds have the ability to distinguish right and wrong “Sila po, in fact, marunong silang mag-operate ng computer at the age of 7 years old. They know to distinguish the right to wrong.” (They are able to, in fact, operate a computer at the age of 7 years old.) |
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| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | Blames the lack of a Death Penalty in the boldness of the Narco cartels in their operations in the country. “No death penalty, no problem. That’s how drug traffickers see the situation here” he said |
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| ML in Mindanao | Warned that the lifting of Martial Law in Mindanao may lead to more attacks by terror groups “Scaling back military control and presence in the southern islands at this moment might embolden these extremists, leading to more deadly attacks. That’s why letting its validity elapse on December 31 is illogical,” |
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| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
Bachelor of Science in Management, De La Salle University
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Go, on federalism: "On my part, I am pushing for Federalism, that is why we need to make people understand.” | |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Lowering of MACR | Go is in favor of the measure, having previously said, “Isa ako sa sang-ayon sa sinasabi ni Pangulong Duterte [na amyendahan ang batas]. Noon pa lang sinasabi ko na ‘yan na sisilipin ko ‘yang Juvenile Justice Law. Ang tanging layunin naman po natin ay maprotektahan ang kabataan at hindi sila magamit ng mga kriminal.” (I am one of those in favor of what Duterte said [on amending the law]. Even before I had said that I will look into the Juvenile Justice Law. Our goal, after all, is to protect the youth from being used by criminals.) | |
| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | Go, on death penalty: “Naniniwala akong epektibong deterrent ang death penalty laban sa mga karumaldumal na krimen, katulad ng walang awa at mala-demonyong pagpatay at pagbalat pa sa mukha ni Christine Lee Silawan ng Cebu.” (I believe that the death penalty is an effective deterrent against heinous crimes, like the merciless and demonic killing and skinning of the face of Christine Lee Silawan of Cebu.) | |
| ML in Mindanao | Go previously welcomed Congress’ decision to extend martial law in Mindanao. | |
| Contractualization | Go welcomed the signing of the executive order that opposed the practice of endo. | |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
Philippine Military Academy (Class of 1986)
Masters of Public Administration, University of Southeastern Philippines
Doctor of Philosophy in Development Administration, University of Southeastern Philippines
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Dela Rosa was in favor of the TRAIN Law due to its provision on personal income tax cuts for uniformed personnel and the working class. | |
| Relations with China | Dela Rosa said he would support President Rodrigo Duterte’s decisions on the matter. | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Dela Rosa had previously advocated for charter change. | |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Lowering of MACR | Dela Rosa is in favor of the lowering of the minimum age of criminal liability, believing it is for the benefit of the youth. “Kayong mga kabataan, you are the reason why Duterte declared war on drugs. He wanted to save the future,” he explained. | |
| Divorce | In the CNN Philippines Senatorial Forum held last December, Dela Rosa said he was in favor of legalizing divorce. | |
| Death Penalty | Dela Rosa vowed to reinstate death penalty, especially for drug traffickers and corrupt politicians, once elected senator. | |
| ML in Mindanao | Dela Rosa, on Martial Law in Mindanao: “I don’t want martial law. I still remember the suffering we had to go through during martial law. My father was a victim of Martial Law. He was a tricycle driver then and he was beaten up by PC (Philippine Constabulary) because he was overloading. I was riding on top of the tricycle.” | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | Dela Rosa, on same-sex marriage: “Ako masaya ko kasiping ko asawa ko. Kung sila gusto nila lalaki kasiping lalaki, ibigay mo, pagbigyan natin. We have the right to be happy.” (I am happy with making love to my wife. If they would prefer a man to make love to another man, then so be it. We have the right to be happy.) |
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Binay voted in favor of the TRAIN Law. | |
| Relations with China | No direct comment, but Binay has previously expressed her interest in having a total ban on the employment of Chinese construction workers in the country. | No direct comment, but Binay has previously expressed her interest in having a total ban on the employment of Chinese construction workers in the country.. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Political Dynasties | Binay gave her support for Senate Bill 1765, or the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2018; however, in 2013, she was of a different opinion and said that there was nothing wrong with political dynasties. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Binay stated that children are too young to understand the ramifications of their actions. "Even though we are serious in stopping juvenile crime, lowering the age of criminal responsibility may not be the best way to save children who may have gone astray,” she said. | |
| Divorce | Rather than allow divorce, Binay instead proposed that the annulment process be amended to make it less tedious and expensive. | |
| Death Penalty | Binay argued that the justice system needed to be fixed first before death penalty can be imposed. | |
| ML in Mindanao | Binay voted in favor of the imposition of martial law in Mindanao in 2017. | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment, but Binay called for the end of contractualization in public agencies | No direct comment, but Binay called for the end of contractualization in public agencies |
| Same-sex marriage | Binay, on same-sex marriage: "Nakasaad naman sa Family Code that marriage is between a man and woman. But we also still respect the relationship (between same sex couples). We can recognize them as such but not in the context of marriage." |
Far Eastern University, Bachelor of Laws
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Has dismissed the notion that the Train Law has an effect on the rise of food prices in the country "Walang kinalaman dito yung TRAIN Law. Ang kailangan dito ay palakasin ang agrikultura sa pamamagitan ng pagbigay ng subsidiya dito sa mga farmers para yung kanilang pananim ay maging mausbong." (TRAIN Law is outside this. What should be done is to strengthen the agriculture sector by providing subsidies for farmers to boost their productivity,) |
No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue.. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Gadon on Federalism, "It is so much more democratic that abusive oligarchs will find it harder to influence government, because much of political power will be distributed to state governments and not focused on the president alone." | |
| Political Dynasties | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Lowering of MACR | Gadon, on lowering the MACR: "Dahil ang mga bata ngayon mas matalino. Alam naman nila kung ano ‘yung mali at tama. Ngayon kung ang problema ay ‘yung pasilidad, eh ‘di ‘yun ang bigyan ng pansin. Pero ‘wag nating pabayaan na kahit na ‘yung mga bata eh alam naman nila ‘yung – ‘yung meron naman silang tinatawag na “discernment”, eh gagawa sila ng krimen dahil ang nasa isip nila, hindi naman ako parurusahan eh." (Because children today are smarter. They know what is right and wrong. Now, if the problem is facilities, then focus on improving it. But, let us not ignore the fact that even children know that they have this thing called "discernment", they will do any crime they can think of, they won't be punished anyway) | |
| Divorce | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Death Penalty | Gadon argued in favor of death penaty saying that the imposition of capital punishment will serve as deterrent to crime. He also believes that Imprisonment is an inadequate deterrent in stopping crime, and cites the low crime rates of Singapore and Saudi Arabia as examples. “Sa Singapore, napakababa ng crime rate, sa Saudi Arabia, napakababa ng crime rate. Walang halos heinous crime d’un na nababasa natin dito, takot ang mga tao,” (In Singapore and Saudi Arabia, the crime rate is really low. There is almost no heinous crime there as we can read here, [it is because] the people there are scared,) he said |
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| ML in Mindanao | In GMA7's Senatoriable Face-Off 2019, Gadon raised a placard indicating his approval of Martial Law extension in Mindanao. | |
| Contractualization | NEUTRAL Gadon said that "endo" is "unavoidable" due to the temporary nature of many jobs in the service sector. He proposed that the country's industrial sector be strengthened instead to stop "endo”. | NEUTRAL Gadon said that "endo" is "unavoidable" due to the temporary nature of many jobs in the service sector. He proposed that the country's industrial sector be strengthened instead to stop "endo”. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, University of the Philippines
Representative of Las Pinas (2001-2010)
Senator (2013-Present)
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Cynthia Villar was one of the signatories of Republic Act No. 10963 or TRAIN. While Villar admitted that "bad projections" were made in the planning of TRAIN she also said that she does not regret signing the bill. | |
| Relations with China | Villar expressed belief that joint energy explorations between China and the Philippines will benefit the country. "Sixty percent [for the Philippines] is the majority share. Anyway, they (Chinese) are the ones who will shoulder the cost,” she said. Villar also added that the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the President with China was "legal". | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Villar, on Charter Change: “We can do other things aside from cha-cha. Because the complaint is only about more power to local government units, then we'll just amend the Local Government Code," she said. | |
| Political Dynasties | NEUTRAL While Villar acknowledged that her family is classified as a political dynasty, she said that she will not oppose legislation outlawing political dynasties. She noted that political dynasties also exist in other countries and credited the re-election of her family members to good public trust. | NEUTRAL While Villar acknowledged that her family is classified as a political dynasty, she said that she will not oppose legislation outlawing political dynasties. She noted that political dynasties also exist in other countries and credited the re-election of her family members to good public trust. |
| Lowering of MACR | Villar signed the panel report proposing the lowering of the criminal age of responsibility to 12. Though Villar voiced concerns over the construction of rehabilitation centers and that 12 years may be too young. She said that 13 is more acceptable. | |
| Divorce | Villar, on Divorce: "No no no, I'm conservative.” | |
| Death Penalty | No direct comment on the issue - Villar has not made any direct reference to "endo". However she has been accused of labor groups of using "delaying tactics" to stall legislation that will ban "endo". | No direct comment on the issue - Villar has not made any direct reference to "endo". However she has been accused of labor groups of using "delaying tactics" to stall legislation that will ban "endo". |
| ML in Mindanao | Villar voted in favor of the extension of Martial Law in Mindanao. | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | Villar previously expressed that she felt there is "no need" to legislate a same-sex marriage law. |
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, cum laude, University of the Philippines
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Political Dynasties | Cayetano said that she is amenable on the ban of political dynasties, especially if majority of Filipinos are in favor of the initiative. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Cayetano, on the lowering of MACR: “There should be accountability for young children in conflict with law but not criminal prosecution, especially when the child is at a tender age of nine.” | |
| Divorce | Cayetano, on divorce: “I am not pushing it for everyone. Of course not! I am a believer of the sanctity of the family but there are very abusive relationships that are in need of a legal measure that would protect and help them.” | |
| Death Penalty | Cayetano previously voted in favor of House Bill 4727, which called for the reinstatement of the death penalty. | |
| ML in Mindanao | Cayetano voted in favor of the imposition of martial law in Mindanao in 2017. | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
No college degree
Congresswoman, 2nd District of Ilocos Norte (1998-2007)
Governor, Ilocos Norte (2010-present)| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Yes to TRAIN Law | |
| Relations with China | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Marcos said that federalism can improve local governance and decentralize the influence of “Imperial Manila”.. | |
| Political Dynasties | Yes to Political Dynasties | |
| Lowering of MACR | Yes to Lowering of the minimum age of criminal liability | |
| Divorce | Yes to Divorce | |
| Death Penalty | No to Death Penalty | |
| ML in Mindanao | Yes to Martial Law in Mindanao | |
| Contractualization | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment | No direct comment |
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Angara sponsored the TRAIN Law. He recently defended the measure, stating, “When you criticize TRAIN [law], how come they don’t talk about the income tax exemption of P250,000 which benefitted millions of families? And no one talks about the estate tax, about the simplification of the tax code.” | |
| Relations with China | No direct comment, but Angara has asked Congress to investigate on the constitutionality of the PH-China loan agreements. | No direct comment, but Angara has asked Congress to investigate on the constitutionality of the PH-China loan agreements.. |
| Federalism/Charter Change | No direct comment, but Angara has asked Congress to explain to the public the implications of federalism to raise awareness. Angara has also expressed his interest in giving local government units more power although not necessarily through federalism. | No direct comment, but Angara has asked Congress to explain to the public the implications of federalism to raise awareness. Angara has also expressed his interest in giving local government units more power although not necessarily through federalism. |
| Political Dynasties | Angara was one of the senators that was in favor of Senate Bill 1765, or the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2018. | |
| Lowering of MACR | Angara said that children in conflict with the law should undergo intervention in a juvenile center, not in a regular jail “where chances for reform are slim.” | |
| Divorce | Angara has previously stated that he was against divorce. | |
| Death Penalty | NEUTRAL Angara has remained neutral on the imposition of death penalty, being open to the proposal. However, he had also raised concern on the possible legal manipulation around death penalty cases. | NEUTRAL Angara has remained neutral on the imposition of death penalty, being open to the proposal. However, he had also raised concern on the possible legal manipulation around death penalty cases. |
| ML in Mindanao | Angara backed the declaration of martial law in Mindanao in 2017, and voted in favor of its extension in 2018. | |
| Contractualization | Angara, on end-of-contract or “endo”: “Congress needs to strengthen the prohibition against labor-only contracting and provide stricter penalties against employers who circumvent labor laws through a system that is design to prevent workers from attaining regular employment and security of tenure.” | |
| Same-sex marriage | No direct comment on the issue. | No direct comment on the issue. |
| In Favor | Against | |
|---|---|---|
| TRAIN Law | Filed a petition at the SC for a TRO against the implementation of TRAIN; argued that it is unconstitutional and caused a heavy economic burden for many Filipinos. "Where in the world could you see a country which taxes all inflationary products like electricity, water, and fuel? If you increase taxes on these, the prices in everything would go up," | |
| Relations with China | wants the Philippines to assert its sovereignty: "We have to stop Duterte from selling out the country. We urge the people to vehemently condemn this latest threat to Philippine sovereignty. We urge the Supreme Court to urgently intervene and put a stop to this latest sellout of the Philippines and the Filipino" | |
| Federalism/Charter Change | Believes that lawmakers are making amendments to the constitution that will only benefit them; considers it dictatorial; "It centralizes repressive powers in President Duterte,"; "This is the worst cha-cha [proposal] ever. This is the only cha-cha with pork barrel enshrined in the Constitution," | |
| Political Dynasties | No recent updates but he was one of the principal authors of the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2013 when he still served as Bayan Muna Rep but the law was dropped for being a "toothless" measure | |
| Lowering of MACR | "The main justification of the bill is the use of minors by criminal syndicates. the adults are the ones who manipulate the minors. Just because they cannot arrest the adults does not justify punishing the child. Na-victimize na nga sila ng nakakatanda, lalo pa silang pahirapan ng gobyerno. They are victimized twice over," | |
| Divorce | When he first ran in 2016, Colmenares already expressed support for divorce. He cited the current grounds for annulment as already having elements for divorce but still lacking."The absurdity is that why is it when grounds exist after marriage, hindi na pwede? Hindi mo naman malalaman na nangbubugbog ang asawa mo nung nanliligaw siya eh. Malalaman mo lang pag magkasama na kayo. So the divorce bill actually will just remedy the situation... na kahit after the marriage pag nangbugbog ang asawa, maging ground na rin siya for divorce," | |
| Death Penalty | Argues that there is no link to the lowering of crime rates and the implementation of death penalty; "Maraming mga bansa na walang death penalty. Sabi nila, kapag walang death penalty, grabe ang krimen. Hindi. Mga Scandinavian countries, marami diyan walang death penalty pero peaceful ang bansa nila, etc.," | |
| ML in Mindanao | Does not deem it necessary, believes that the continuous affirmation of ML in Mindanao will pave the way for nationwide implementation; "Thus, even if rebellion exists, if public safety is not threatened, the president can use his calling out powers for the military to quell rebellion, not martial law,” | |
| Contractualization | Part of the "Labor Win" coalition which is composed of candidates recognized by labor groups as champions of their rights and welfare; "Panahon na po para tapusin ang isa sa pinakamalupit na sistema sa ating bansa, ang kontraktwalisasyon. Ang tama, tama. Ang mali, mali. At mali ang kontraktwalisasyon. 'Yan ang aming paninidigan" | |
| Same-sex marriage | Not updated since he ran in 2016 but he did express an openness to discussions about same-sex marriage and called out Sen. Manny Pacquiao for his below the belt comments on homosexuality before |
