Lagman on LP's 78th year: Embrace party's legacies

MANILA: The president of the Liberal Party (LP) said that it is now the time to perpetuate the legacies of the party in terms of democratic liberalism, social justice and good governance as it celebrates its 78th year on Friday.

The party was formed by Manuel Roxas, Elpidio Quirino and Jose Avelino on Jan. 19, 1946, after breaking off from the Nacionalista Party.

In a statement, LP President and Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman said the party has remained at the forefront of promoting progressive ideals and forward-thinking leadership, as well as inclusive and accountable governance and defending the rights and welfare of the Filipino people, since its founding in 1946.

Lagman said that while the membership of the party is dwindling and it is facing challenges on its own, he counted out the possibility of a party hiatus.

«In fact, now is the time to perpetuate the legacies of LP. We may be small in numbers, but we are far from [being] insignificant. For what we lack in numbers, we compensate for with the unquestionable quality and excellence of our members,» he said.

According to Lagman, the LP takes pride in its history of upholding democratic principles and has continually advocated for a just and equitable society, including opposition to oppression and despotism.

«We recognize that there is much work to be done, but we are up to the challenge,» Lagman said.

He vowed that the LP will continue to engage in meaningful dialogue, forge strategic alliances, and mobilize its members to effect positive change in the lives of all Filipinos.

Meanwhile, LP spokesman former senator Leila de Lima said that LP's founders fought in the wake of the country's restoration after the Second World War and the dark past of Martial Law.

She also said that the party continued to stand firm for democracy and fight against corruption, while also implementing programs that would ensure that no Filipino would get behind.

The party, de Lima said, will continue to fight while the country's history is being removed and institutions are being destroyed.

«Let this anniversary serve as a reminder that the Liberal Party of the Philippines has been a stalwart force throughout history, adapting