Statements

On Ensuring the Proper Use of Intelligence and Confidential Funds

We have organized and activated a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and Confidential Funds. Its primary function is to exercise congressional oversight on how such funds are utilized.

The Committee can demand, if it so desires, the submission of pertinent documents of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) such as approved intelligence project proposals and the like. The minority bloc is an indispensable part of the select committee.

The present Senate can constitute such a select committee by electing its members and thereafter exercise its functions.

*****

Statements

On the Foiled Hostage-Taking of Former Sen. De Lima

The swift and decisive response undertaken by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the foiled hostage-taking of former Senator de Lima and the in-depth investigation already ordered by Chief PNP Azurin must be taken into consideration before the usual critics start to put the PNP in a bad light.

That being said, an impartial investigation must be conducted immediately with the end in view of preventing any similar incident in the future.

More importantly, the intended hostage is safe and unscathed even as we should pray for the injured police officer.

What is not known to many, an offer for transfer was already made by the PNP to Sen de Lima as early as mid-August this year on the occasion of the US Congressional delegation visit led by Sen. Markey, the reason being – the PNP Custodial Center is primarily designed for high-value criminals and high-risk terrorists. Unfortunately, the former senator declined the offer and opted to stay where she is presently detained.

That all being said, and without intending to preempt the authorities, high-risk detainees who are members of an internationally proscribed terrorist organization like the Abu Sayyaf Group should be isolated and not mixed with the other PDLs.

That, I assume, will be part of the recommendations in an investigation now being conducted.

*****

Statements

On the Manila RTC’s Dismissal of the Proscription Case vs the CPP-NPA

The Manila RTC’s dismissal of the pending proscription case is pursuant to the Saving Clause provision under the Anti-Terrorism Act and should not in any way be interpreted as a setback for the law itself.

That being said, that is exactly the reason why “proscription” is designed to be the exclusive authority of the judiciary since it could involve possible detention of individuals and members of organizations suspected to be violating the Act, hence due process of law must be strictly observed.

Unlike “designation” which only involves preliminary freezing of bank accounts and assets of those involved in terrorist financing, and which the Anti-Terrorism Council is given the authority to perform since it is merely an administrative act.

*****

Statements

On Senator Legarda’s ‘Stand’ that the CPP-NDF is Not an Enemy of the State

Well said. I could not agree more with the statement of the NTF-ELCAC.*

Senator Legarda is a friend and I respect her opinion but I cannot for the life of me agree with her stand, apparently articulated by her statement that the CPP-NPA-NDF is not an enemy of the state. Simply put, an armed terrorist group — already designated not only by the government of the Republic of the Philippines but also by the European Union, the United States of America and four other countries (Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand) — is unequivocally an enemy of the state.

That being said, any attempt to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act is a disrespect to our comrades-in-arms as well as the countless civilians who fell victims to the atrocities of this terrorist group that has lost its ideological principles over the years – they murder, they rob, they extort, they harass and intimidate and worse, indiscriminately.

Having authored and sponsored and almost single-handedly defended the legislative measure in the Senate plenary, as well as in the battle for public opinion in many fora including the media, I will not hesitate to be part of the opposition to thwart moves to amend this law in its substantive form which no less than the Supreme Court has declared as constitutional.

*****

Continue reading “On Senator Legarda’s ‘Stand’ that the CPP-NDF is Not an Enemy of the State” →

Speeches, Videos

At the PNP Foundation Inc.’s Donation of Equipment to the PNP

P/Gen Rodolfo Azurin Jr, Chief of the Philippine National Police; members of the command group and Directorial Staff and all the officers present; the men and women of the proud and brave organization, the PNP, magandang umaga po sa ating lahat.

It always feels good to be back home. To some of us in the Board of Trustees of the PNP Foundation Inc. Camp Crame is our home, a place where we spent most of our adult professional life facing challenges too many that we have lost count of the number. How time flies, and fast.

Twenty-two years ago, I used to preside and lead our regular Monday flag-raising ceremonies where we would start our week’s work in our offices, in the field, or wherever we could be deployed to serve and protect the people; unsure if we would still be alive to attend the next hoisting of the Philippine flag right on this spot where we stand now.

Continue reading “At the PNP Foundation Inc.’s Donation of Equipment to the PNP” →

Statements

On the Passing of Former President Fidel Ramos

Fidel Valdez Ramos: PC Chief, AFP Chief of Staff, DND Secretary and Commander-in-Chief. All my life as a soldier and policeman, he was my superior officer through and through. He made me Lieutenant Colonel at age 31 and handed me my first star at age 45. Rest In Peace, Sir.

Statements

Pagtatanim at Food Security, Bagong Kabanata sa Buhay ni Ping

Sa pagtatapos ng termino sa Senado ni Senador Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson sa ika-30 ng Hunyo, tila pagbubukas ng isang panibagong kabanata ng buhay naman ang kanyang kinikinita – ang makapag-ambag sa food security ng bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagtahak sa isang agri-aqua business kasama ang ilang kaibigan, kabilang ang dating kalihim ng agrikultura na si Secretary Emmanual “Manny” Pinol.

“I’m just looking at a closed chapter in my life story. I’m now turning a new page with a new chapter. This is my third career. My first career was in law enforcement, then I became a legislator,” ayon kay Lacson sa isang panayam nitong Linggo ng gabi.

Related: Lacson Seeks to Contribute to Food Security after Senate Stint
Continue reading “Pagtatanim at Food Security, Bagong Kabanata sa Buhay ni Ping” →

Statements

Lacson Seeks to Contribute to Food Security after Senate Stint

After his Senate term ends on June 30, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson is hoping to start the next chapter of his life story – by contributing to food security through a new endeavor.

Lacson and some friends, including former Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol, have organized themselves to venture into an agri-aqua business.

“I’m just looking at a closed chapter in my life story. I’m now turning a new page with a new chapter. This is my third career. My first career was in law enforcement, then I became a legislator,” Lacson said Sunday evening.

Related: Pagtatanim at Food Security, Bagong Kabanata sa Buhay ni Ping
Continue reading “Lacson Seeks to Contribute to Food Security after Senate Stint” →

Statements

Lacson, May Solusyon sa Tumataas na Presyo ng Gasolina

Kondisyunal na pagsuspinde sa excise tax ng gasolina, at ang pagtanggal sa napakaraming Value-Added Tax (VAT) exemptions.

Ayon kay Senador Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson, ito ang dalawang magkaakibat na solusyon na magbibigay ng hinga sa mga Pilipino sa patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng gasolina.

“We can conditionally suspend excise taxes on fuel when oil prices reach a threshold price in the international market such as $90 or even $100 per barrel. This could provide some breathing space not just for the transport sector but those affected by high fuel prices,” ayon kay Lacson sa isang panayam Linggo ng gabi.

Related: Lacson Pushes 2-Pronged Formula for ‘Breathing Room’ Amid Soaring Fuel Prices
Continue reading “Lacson, May Solusyon sa Tumataas na Presyo ng Gasolina” →

Statements

Lacson Pushes 2-Pronged Formula for ‘Breathing Room’ Amid Soaring Fuel Prices

A conditional suspension of the excise tax on fuel, and the scrapping of several lines of exemption in the Value-Added Tax (VAT).

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said this is the two-pronged formula that can give Filipinos some badly needed breathing room from the effects of prohibitive fuel prices.

“We can conditionally suspend excise taxes on fuel when oil prices reach a threshold price in the international market such as $90 or even $100 per barrel. This could provide some breathing space not just for the transport sector but those affected by high fuel prices,” Lacson said in an interview with the media Sunday evening.

Related: Lacson, May Solusyon sa Tumataas na Presyo ng Gasolina
Continue reading “Lacson Pushes 2-Pronged Formula for ‘Breathing Room’ Amid Soaring Fuel Prices” →

Statements

Lacson sa 19th Congress Senators: Ipagpatuloy Niyong Bantayan at Busisiin ang Kaban ng Bayan!

Umaasa si Senador Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson na ipagpapatuloy ng mga Senador ng 19th Congress ang krusada sa pagbubusisi at pagbabantay sa national budget laban sa mga kuwestiyunableng congressional insertions (a.k.a “pork barrel”) at mga hindi kapaki-pakinabang na appropriations.

“I hope somebody will take the cudgels and continue the fight because while the Supreme Court has ruled pork barrel as unconstitutional, there are so many ways to go around it,” pahayag ni Lacson sa media noong Linggo ng gabi sa Pasay City.

Idinagdag din ng Senador na magtatapos ang termino sa ika-30 ng Hunyo, na makakatulong nang husto sa budget scrutiny ang ilang miyembro ng kaniyang staff na ngayo’y magiging bahagi na rin ng opisina ng ibang mga senador.

Related: Lacson Hopes 19th Congress Senators to Continue Budget Scrutiny
Continue reading “Lacson sa 19th Congress Senators: Ipagpatuloy Niyong Bantayan at Busisiin ang Kaban ng Bayan!” →

Statements

Lacson Hopes 19th Congress Senators to Continue Budget Scrutiny

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson is hoping senators in the 19th Congress will continue his crusade of tenaciously scrutinizing the national budget and keeping it free from dubious congressional insertions (a.k.a. “pork barrel”) and useless appropriations.

“I hope somebody will take the cudgels and continue the fight because while the Supreme Court has ruled pork barrel as unconstitutional, there are so many ways to go around it,” Lacson, who ends his Senate term on June 30, told media in Pasay City Sunday evening.

He added some members of his staff who have joined other senators can be a great help in scrutinizing the budget for dubious insertions.

Related: Lacson sa 19th Congress Senators: Ipagpatuloy Niyong Bantayan at Busisiin ang Kaban ng Bayan!
Continue reading “Lacson Hopes 19th Congress Senators to Continue Budget Scrutiny” →

Statements

On the Blocking of Websites ‘Affiliated to and Supporting’ Terrorist Organizations

If the blocked websites had to do with financing the activities of the CPP-NPA which the Anti-Terrorism Council had already designated as a terrorist organization, there is legal basis under the law for such action undertaken by the NTC.

That being said, the action may be challenged before the court because it is the basic right of an “aggrieved” party to do so as it has something to do with the interpretation of the law.

*****

Statements

On the Appointment of Ret. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr.
Image Courtesy: CNN Philippines

Having capped his career as the AFP Chief of Staff easily qualifies Gen. Faustino as the next Secretary of National Defense in November, in consideration of the one-year ban on the appointment of newly retired AFP officers under RA 11709.

My objection to his appointment earlier as a 3-star general being the Commanding General of the Philippine Army had nothing to do with his competence but his disqualification due to the prohibition under Presidential Decree 1638, having less than one year before retirement.

Only the Chief of Staff, AFP is exempted from such ban.

I remember making a commitment to SND Lorenzana then that even if Faustino was on floating status and appointed Chief of Staff, I would not object to his confirmation as 4-star general and even move for his confirmation in the Commission on Appointments as a member of the Senate panel, which I did.

*****

Statements

Lacson Offers Prayers for DND Sec. Lorenzana’s Health
Courtesy: Sec. Lorenzana’s Facebook

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson on Sunday offered prayers for the health of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who fainted during the Independence Day flag-raising ceremony in Manila.

“Prayers, prayers for SND Del’s health,” Lacson said on his Twitter account.

Continue reading “Lacson Offers Prayers for DND Sec. Lorenzana’s Health” →

Documents

Read: Senate Resolution 1016, Commending Sen. Lacson for his Contributions to the Senate and the Filipino People
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Senate Resolution 1016 commends Sen. Ping Lacson for his contributions to the Senate and the Filipino people during his term as Senator.

Photos, Speeches, Videos

Sen. Ping Lacson’s Senate Valedictory

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Mr. President, distinguished colleagues:

This is it. My long journey of 50 years now comes to an end. Looking back, I had a very simple childhood ambition. To become a lawyer and to start and cap my career as an agent of the NBI. With some unplanned twist of fate I graduated from the PMA. My dream then was to wear that insignia with a star on my shoulder. Instead I got four stars as chief of the nation’s police force and with a bang.

Continue reading “Sen. Ping Lacson’s Senate Valedictory” →

Statements

Pagbaba ng VAT Rate at Pag-alis ng Exemptions, Itinulak ni Ping Para Makalikom ng Pondo ang Gobyerno Para Bayaran ang Utang

Itinulak ni Sen. Ping Lacson ang pagbaba ng rate ng Value-Added Tax (VAT) at pagtanggal ng exemptions dito para makalikom ng pondo ang gobyerno na hindi dadagdag sa pabigat sa ordinaryong Pilipino.

Ayon kay Lacson, kung nasunod lang ang formula na isinulong niya noon pang 2018, maaari nang lumikom ng hindi bababa sa P117 bilyon kada taon na dagdag na tax revenues kahit na binaba ang VAT rate sa 10 percent mula sa kasalukuyang 12 percent.

“The Department of Finance should have adopted my proposal when Congress was deliberating on Train 1. We could have earned at least P117 billion in additional tax revenues in 2018 alone, even with a reduced VAT rate from 12% to 10%, by removing 78 lines of exemption from some sectors such as the power sector, cooperatives, housing, and economic zones,” ani Lacson, matapos mapaulat na isusulong ng Department of Finance sa susunod na administrasyon ang pagtanggal ng VAT exemption para makalikom ng P142.5 bilyon kada taon. Ang pondo diumano ay gagamitin para bayaran ang utang ng bansa.

Related: Lowering VAT Rate, Cutting Exemptions: Lacson Pushes Formula to Shore Up Revenues
Continue reading “Pagbaba ng VAT Rate at Pag-alis ng Exemptions, Itinulak ni Ping Para Makalikom ng Pondo ang Gobyerno Para Bayaran ang Utang” →

Statements

Lowering VAT Rate, Cutting Exemptions: Lacson Pushes Formula to Shore Up Revenues to Pay Debts

Bringing down the rate of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) while removing VAT exemptions in several sectors will go a long way in raising much-needed revenues for the government while lessening the burden on ordinary Filipinos.

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said this formula, which he proposed as early as 2018, could have raised at least P117 billion a year in additional tax revenues even with a VAT rate of 10 percent, lower than the current 12 percent.

“The Department of Finance should have adopted my proposal when Congress was deliberating on Train 1. We could have earned at least P117 billion in additional tax revenues in 2018 alone, even with a reduced VAT rate from 12% to 10%, by removing 78 lines of exemption from some sectors such as the power sector, cooperatives, housing, and economic zones,” Lacson said, following reports the DOF will ask the next administration to remove VAT exemptions to generate at least P142.5 billion every year, with the amount potentially used for debt payments.

Related: Pagbaba ng VAT Rate at Pag-alis ng Exemptions, Itinulak ni Ping Para Makalikom ng Pondo ang Gobyerno
Continue reading “Lowering VAT Rate, Cutting Exemptions: Lacson Pushes Formula to Shore Up Revenues to Pay Debts” →

Statements

Deserve! Papugay Para sa mga Sundalong Nagsugal ng Buhay Para Sagipin ang Indo Fishers sa Abu Sayyaf, Tiniyak ni Lacson

Higit sa mga matataas na opisyal, dapat bigyang pugay at parangal ang mga sundalong nagsusugal ng buhay para sa bayan.

Iginiit ito ni Senador Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, nang itinulak niyang isama sa resolusyon kaugnay sa pagsagip ng mga Indonesian fishermen laban sa mga Abu Sayyaf noong Disyembre 2019 ang pangalan ng higit 50 sundalo na nagsagawa ng rescue operation.

“Praise the commanders to high heavens if we must; just don’t forget the soldiers who literally risked their lives to make the feat happen,” ani Lacson, chairman ng Senate Committee on National Defense, sa kanyang Twitter account nitong Lunes ng hapon.

Related: Lacson Ensures ‘Lower-Ranking’ Soldiers in Indo Fishers’ Rescue are Equally Recognized
Continue reading “Deserve! Papugay Para sa mga Sundalong Nagsugal ng Buhay Para Sagipin ang Indo Fishers sa Abu Sayyaf, Tiniyak ni Lacson” →

Senate Resolutions, Statements, Videos

Lacson Ensures ‘Lower-Ranking’ Soldiers in Indo Fishers’ Rescue are Equally Recognized

More than the commanders, the soldiers on the ground who risked their lives deserve to be honored.

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson stressed this as he pushed for the inclusion of more than 50 soldiers’ names in a resolution citing Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and former Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana for the rescue of Indonesian fishermen from the Abu Sayyaf in December 2019.

“Praise the commanders to high heavens if we must; just don’t forget the soldiers who literally risked their lives to make the feat happen,” Lacson, who heads the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, said on his Twitter account Monday afternoon.

Related: Deserve! Papugay Para sa mga Sundalong Nagsugal ng Buhay Para Sagipin ang Indo Fishers sa Abu Sayyaf, Tiniyak ni Lacson
Continue reading “Lacson Ensures ‘Lower-Ranking’ Soldiers in Indo Fishers’ Rescue are Equally Recognized” →

Statements

On the Passing of Ms. Susan Roces

“ANG SINUNGALING AY KAPATID NG MAGNANAKAW!” – how can we forget such feisty words from the queen herself, sans script or direction from anyone behind the camera. It was all from Ms Susan Roces – a spontaneous and honest expression of the sad state of politics in the country.

Statements

Batas na Tutuldukan ang ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ ng AFP, Isa sa Mga Legacy ni Ping sa AFP, DND
Sen. Ping Lacson upholds professionalism in the AFP.

Ang bagong batas na nagtatakda ng “fixed terms” para sa Chief of Staff at ibang matataas na opisyal ng Armed Forces of the Philippines ay isa sa mga legacy ni Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson sa ating military at defense establishment.

Isninulong ni Lacson noong Setyembre bilang chairman ng Senate Committee on National Defense and Security ang Senate Bill 2376, na kasama ang House Bill 10521 ay naging basehan ng Republic Act 11709 na pinirmahan ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte.

“Finally, we will see an end to the revolving-door policy in the AFP. The leaders of our AFP will have the opportunity to implement their legacy programs instead of staying in office too briefly,” ani Lacson, na nagsilbi sa Philippine Constabulary ng 20 taon matapos mag-graduate sa Philippine Military Academy noong 1971.

Related: Law Ending ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ Caps Lacson Legacies to AFP, DND
Continue reading “Batas na Tutuldukan ang ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ ng AFP, Isa sa Mga Legacy ni Ping sa AFP, DND” →

Statements

Law Ending ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ Caps Lacson Legacies to AFP, DND
Sen. Ping Lacson upholds professionalism in the AFP.

A new law prescribing fixed terms for the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Chief of Staff and senior officers will cap the key legacies of Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson to the military and defense establishment.

Lacson, who chairs the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, pushed last September Senate Bill 2376, which with House Bill 10521 forms the basis of what President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law as Republic Act 11709.

“Finally, we will see an end to the revolving-door policy in the AFP. The leaders of our AFP will have the opportunity to implement their legacy programs instead of staying in office too briefly,” said Lacson, who upon graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1971 served in the Philippine Constabulary until 1991.

Related: Batas na Tutuldukan ang ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ ng AFP, Isa sa Mga Legacy ni Ping sa AFP, DND
Continue reading “Law Ending ‘Revolving-Door Policy’ Caps Lacson Legacies to AFP, DND” →

Statements

Going Home

I’m going home. After being away too long looking after the needs of other people, it is time to serve my family for a change. Enjoying peace and quiet in these challenging times will probably be my life’s greatest reward.

Photos

Election Day 2022

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Sen. Ping Lacson cast his vote at the Bayan Luma 1 Elementary School in Imus, Cavite on May 9, 2022.

Photos

Lacson-Sotto Caravan in Calabarzon

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem visited areas in Calabarzon via a caravan on May 7, 2022. With them were senatoriables Minguita Padilla and Guillermo Eleazar.

Statements

Ping, Umaasa sa Muling Pagkakaisa, Kapayapaan ng Sambayanan sa Pagtatapos ng Kampanya

Sa pagtatapos ng kampanya at halalan sa Mayo 9, umaasa si independent presidential candidate Senador Ping Lacson na ito na rin ang magiging katapusan ng pagkakawatak-watak at girian na nanaig sa nakararaming botanteng Pilipino noong nakaraang 90 araw.

Sa kanyang Twitter post nitong Sabado ng umaga, ipinahayag ni Lacson ang pag-asa niya na maging isang bansa at nagkakaisang sambayanan muli ang mamamayang Pilipino.

“Dear God. Thank You for keeping us ALL safe from illness and injury as we finish the race to submit ourselves to the will of the people. May the bitterness and animosity be buried with the memories of the most grueling 90 days of our lives and be one nation, one people again,” ani Lacson.

Related: Lacson Hopes for Unity, End to Animosity as Campaign Period Ends
Continue reading “Ping, Umaasa sa Muling Pagkakaisa, Kapayapaan ng Sambayanan sa Pagtatapos ng Kampanya” →

Statements

Lacson Hopes for Unity, End to Animosity as Campaign Period Ends

As the campaign period for the May 9, 2022 elections concludes, independent presidential bet Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson is hoping that the bitterness and animosity of the last 90 days will come to an end as well.

In a post on his Twitter account early Saturday, Lacson voiced hopes that the Philippines and the Filipino people will become “one nation, one people again.”

“Dear God. Thank You for keeping us ALL safe from illness and injury as we finish the race to submit ourselves to the will of the people. May the bitterness and animosity be buried with the memories of the most grueling 90 days of our lives and be one nation, one people again,” he said.

Related: Ping, Umaasa sa Muling Pagkakaisa, Kapayapaan ng Sambayanan sa Pagtatapos ng Kampanya
Continue reading “Lacson Hopes for Unity, End to Animosity as Campaign Period Ends” →

Statements

Ping, Humiling ng Isang Mapayapang Rebolusyon sa Mayo 9

CARMONA, Cavite – Sa kanilang ginanap na miting de avance Biyernes ng gabi, hinikayat ni independent presidential aspirant Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson ang sambayanan na maglunsad sa Mayo 9 ng isang mapayapang rebolusyon sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng kanilang karapatan na bumoto ng karapat-dapat na lider ng bansa.

Ito ang panawagan ni Lacson at ng kanyang ka-tandem na si Senate President Tito Sotto sa harap ng mahigit sa 50,000 supporters na dumalo sa Verdant Square.

“Nananawagan ako sa inyo. Inaanyayahan ko kayo na maglunsad tayo ng isang rebolusyon. Hindi po rebolusyon na tulad ng pinaglaban ng ating mga ninuno ng ating mga bayani. Ito po ay isang tahimik na rebolusyon kung saan ang ating gamit ay ang ating mga panulat upang i-shade sa balota ang mga pangalan ng mga dapat at karapat-dapat na mamuno sa ating bansa,” ani Lacson.

Related: Lacson to Filipinos: Launch Silent Revolution on May 9
Continue reading “Ping, Humiling ng Isang Mapayapang Rebolusyon sa Mayo 9” →

Statements

Lacson to Filipinos: Launch Silent Revolution on May 9

CARMONA, Cavite – On May 9, let us launch a silent revolution – not the kind our forefathers launched against foreign invaders and conquerors, but a silent one using our pens to shade the names of our country’s next leaders.

This was independent presidential bet Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson’s invitation to Filipino voters Friday evening at his and vice presidential bet Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III’s miting de avance attended by some 50,000 cheering people at the Verdant Square here.

“Nananawagan ako sa inyo. Inaanyayahan ko kayo na maglunsad tayo ng isang rebolusyon. Hindi po rebolusyon na tulad ng pinaglaban ng ating mga ninuno ng ating mga bayani. Ito po ay isang tahimik na rebolusyon kung saan ang ating gamit ay ang ating mga panulat upang i-shade sa balota ang mga pangalan ng mga dapat at karapat-dapat na mamuno sa ating bansa (I am inviting you to take part in a revolution. Not the revolution that our forefathers waged against conquerors and invaders. This is a silent revolution where we will use our pens to shade the names of deserving leaders in our ballots),” he said.

Related: Ping, Humiling ng Isang Mapayapang Rebolusyon sa Mayo 9
Continue reading “Lacson to Filipinos: Launch Silent Revolution on May 9” →

Speeches

Ping Lacson’s Speech at the Lacson-Sotto Miting de Avance

Magandang, magandang gabi sa ating mga pinakamamahal na aking kalalawigan sa lalawigan ng Cavite. Mabuhay ang Cavite!

Bago ang lahat, ay nais ko munang bigyang pugay at pasalamatan ang isang Kabitenyo na talagang isang tapat sa pakikisama at lapat makipagkaibigan. Siya po ang isang tunay na kaibigan na maski talikuran kami ng lahat nariyan pa rin siya sa ating tabi. Ang aking tinutukoy walang iba kundi si Rep. Roy Loyola. Mabuhay si Cong Loyola!

Continue reading “Ping Lacson’s Speech at the Lacson-Sotto Miting de Avance” →

Photos

Lacson-Sotto Miting de Avance in Cavite

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem held its Miting de Avance in Carmona, Cavite on May 6, 2022.

Statements

Ping, Nakatanggap ng Mainit, Umaapaw na Suporta sa Pagbisita sa Mindanao

Di magkamayaw na tao at isang mainit na pagtanggap ang sumalubong kay independent presidential aspirant Sen. Ping Lacson sa kanyang pagbisita sa Maguindanao at Cagayan de Oro City nitong Huwebes.

Taliwas ang nakitang suporta ng senador sa sinasabing zero support sa Mindanao base sa inilabas na resulta ng isang survey firm.

Bilang natatanging presidential candidate na bumisita sa bayan ng Ampatuan, umaapaw ang saya at init ng pagtanggap kay Lacson at sa kanyang senatorial candidates na sina Minguita Padilla at Manny Piñol sa kanilang pagbisita sa Kamasi Multipurpose Hall.

Related: Big Crowds, Rousing Welcomes in Maguindanao, CDO Fortify Support for Lacson in Mindanao
Continue reading “Ping, Nakatanggap ng Mainit, Umaapaw na Suporta sa Pagbisita sa Mindanao” →

Statements

Big Crowds, Rousing Welcomes in Maguindanao, CDO Fortify Support for Lacson in Mindanao

Big crowds, rousing welcomes and unequivocal affirmations of support in Maguindanao province and Cagayan de Oro City marked the town hall meetings of presidential aspirant Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson in Mindanao on Thursday.

The show of support for Lacson in both areas also belied the projection of a survey firm that he may get zero votes in Mindanao on Election Day.

In Maguindanao, Lacson – accompanied by senatorial candidates Minguita Padilla and Emmanuel Piñol – received an enthusiastic welcome at the Kamasi Multipurpose Hall in Ampatuan town, as some residents lauded him for being the first presidential candidate to visit them.

Related: Ping, Nakatanggap ng Mainit, Umaapaw na Suporta sa Pagbisita sa Mindanao
Continue reading “Big Crowds, Rousing Welcomes in Maguindanao, CDO Fortify Support for Lacson in Mindanao” →

Statements

Ping sa PhilHealth: Ipagpaliban Muna Ang Pagtaas ng Premium

Nanawagan si independent presidential aspirant Sen. Ping Lacson sa Philhealth na pansamantalang ipagpaliban ang napipintong pagtaas ng kanilang premium sa Hunyo para makahinga sa dagdag gastusin ang mga miyembro na lubhang naapektuhan ng pandemya.

Bagama’t pinahihintulutan ang PhilHealth na itaas ang kanilang premium sa ilalim ng Universal Health Care Act, hindi aniya napapanahon para gawin ito.

“It is within the provisions of the Universal Health Care Act to increase, although it may not be advisable at this point in time because we are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Baka hindi timely,” ani Lacson sa isinagawang presscon sa Cagayan de Oro City nitong Huwebes ng hapon.

Related: Lacson to PhilHealth: Defer Planned Premium Hike
Continue reading “Ping sa PhilHealth: Ipagpaliban Muna Ang Pagtaas ng Premium” →

Statements

Lacson to PhilHealth: Defer Planned Premium Hike

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) may need to defer its planned premium rate hike in June to allow members whose livelihoods were affected by the pandemic to recover, presidential aspirant Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said.

Lacson said that while PhilHealth is allowed to raise its premium under the Universal Health Care Act, doing so now is untimely and not advisable.

“It is within the provisions of the Universal Health Care Act to increase, although it may not be advisable at this point in time because we are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Baka hindi timely (It may not be timely),” Lacson said at a press conference in Cagayan de Oro City Thursday afternoon.

Related: Ping sa Philhealth: Ipagpaliban Muna Ang Pagtaas ng Premium
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Lacson-Sotto Campaign in Maguindanao, Cagayan de Oro

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem campaigned in Maguindanao and Cagayan de Oro City on May 5, 2022. Their schedules included meetings with local politicians and town hall meetings.

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Lacson-Sotto Campaign in Dumaguete, Bais, Bacolod

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem, with senatoriable Manny Piñol, campaigned in parts of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental on May 4, 2022. Their schedules include courtesy calls and town hall meetings.

Statements

Ping, Ramdam ang Init ng Suporta sa Dumaguete, Bais Sa Kabila ng Umano’y ‘Zero’ Support sa Visayas

Tila kabaligtaran ng resulta ng isang survey firm ang ipinakitang mainit na suporta kay Senador Ping Lacson nang siya ay bumisita sa Negros Oriental nitong Miyerkules.

Matatandaan na base sa resulta ng survey kamakailan ay sinasabi na zero o walang suporta ang mga taga-Visayas sa kandidatura ng independent presidential aspirant.

Sinalubong si Lacson sa Dumaguete City ni Elsie Lee at ang kanyang pamilya. Ang anak ni Mrs. Lee na si Emmanuel ay na-kidnap noon at si Lacson ang nanguna sa pagligtas sa kanilang anak mula sa kidnappers.

Related: What ‘Zero in Visayas’ Projection? Lacson Gets Warm Welcome in Dumaguete, Bais
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Statements

What ‘Zero in Visayas’ Projection? Lacson Gets Warm Welcome in Dumaguete, Bais

The zero support in the Visayas that a survey firm projected for independent presidential bet Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson was debunked on Wednesday by the warm reception he got in Negros Oriental.

Lacson was welcomed in Dumaguete City by Elsie Lee and her family upon his arrival. Mrs. Lee’s son Emmanuel was a kidnap-for-ransom victim who Lacson rescued during his law enforcement days.

Lacson, accompanied by senatoriable Emmanuel Piñol, were then feted at the Lee Plaza before they paid a courtesy call on Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo at City Hall.

Related: Ping, Ramdam ang Init ng Suporta sa Dumaguete, Bais Sa Kabila ng Umano’y ‘Zero’ Support sa Visayas
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Statements

Voters’ Enlightenment, ‘Silent Revolution’ Magiging Legacy ng Lacson-Sotto Tandem

Anuman ang maging resulta ng eleksyon sa Mayo 9, tiwala ang magka-tandem na sina Senador Ping Lacson at Senate President Tito Sotto na may maiiwan silang “legacy” sa bayan – ang pagbigay kaalaman sa nakararaming botante.

Ito anila ang resulta ng serye ng town hall meetings at pakikipag-dayalogo sa lahat ng kanilang mga nakausap sa kasagsagan ng kanilang kampanya.

“Come what may, maybe on May 9, 2022 – o sa mga susunod na eleksyon sa 2025, 2028, 2031 and beyond – baka yun man lang ang legacy na maiwan namin. Somehow, nag-contribute kami na mabago ang kultura ng eleksyon sa bansa, kung saan sa ngayon, kung sino ang magaling mag-entertain, magaling mambola ay tinatangkilik,” ani Lacson sa kanilang press conference na ginanap sa Tagaytay City.

Related: Lacson, Sotto See Voters’ Enlightenment, ‘Silent Revolution’ as Their Indelible Legacies
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Statements

Lacson, Sotto See Voters’ Enlightenment, ‘Silent Revolution’ as Their Indelible Legacies

Regardless of the outcome of the May 9 elections, independent presidential aspirant Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson and his vice presidential bet Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III will have left an indelible legacy: voters’ enlightenment.

Lacson and Sotto said Tuesday they believe they achieved this through the town hall meetings – all with dialogues or open forums – in the places that they have visited during the campaign.

“Come what may, maybe on May 9, 2022 – o sa mga susunod na eleksyon sa 2025, 2028, 2031 and beyond – baka yun man lang ang legacy na maiwan namin. Somehow, nag-contribute kami na mabago ang kultura ng eleksyon sa bansa, kung saan sa ngayon, kung sino ang magaling mag-entertain, magaling mambola ay tinatangkilik (Come what may, whether it is on May 9, 2022 or in future elections in 2025, 2028, 2031 and beyond, at least we will leave a legacy for the next elections by improving our election culture from the current one where those who know how to entertain and smooth-talk are the projected winners),” Lacson said at a press conference in Tagaytay City.

Related: Voters’ Enlightenment, ‘Silent Revolution’ Magiging Legacy ng Lacson-Sotto Tandem
Continue reading “Lacson, Sotto See Voters’ Enlightenment, ‘Silent Revolution’ as Their Indelible Legacies” →

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Lacson-Sotto Campaign in Muntinlupa, Batangas

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem visited Muntinlupa City and Batangas on May 3, 2022. Their schedules included town hall meetings.

Statements

On the Latest Pulse Asia Survey: A Call to Active and Silent Supporters

Aside from the constant 2% survey results that they’ve been giving me for the past few months, now it is zero scores in both Visayas and Mindanao. Instead of speculating, it is best for me to just wait for the May 9 election results which is not too long a wait after all.

That being said, I call on all my active and silent supporters and those who truly believe in good, honest governance to go out on May 9 and cast their votes as it is the ultimate show of support that matters to Filipinos of the present and future generations.

*****

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Lacson-Sotto Labor Day Motorcade in Metro Manila

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The Lacson-Sotto tandem took part in a motorcade around parts of Metro Manila on May 1, 2022.

PingBills, Statements

Mga Munisipalidad, Mas Madali Na Maging Siyudad Dahil sa Bagong Batas ni Ping

Mas mapapadali na para sa mga mauunlad na munisipalidad ang magpa-convert bilang siyudad, dahil sa isang panukalang batas na inihain ni Senador Ping Lacson.

Naging basehan ng Republic Act 11683 ang Senate Bill 255 na inihain ni Lacson noong July 2019, at ang counterpart measure nito na House Bill 8207.

“By opening the doors to cityhood for qualified municipalities, the new law allows the local governments to fully operationalize their functions. As such, we address the inequity in national resources, we provide a greater number of our people the effectual impact of being a city – better delivery of public services and a fair share of our progress,” ani Lacson, na matagal nang adhikain ang palakasin ang local government units sa buong bansa.

Related: Lacson Bill Easing Requirements for Cityhood Becomes Law
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Lacson Bill Easing Requirements for Cityhood Becomes Law

Prosperous municipalities now have one less obstacle to becoming cities, after a bill filed by Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson to ease the requirements on converting municipalities to component cities became law.

Republic Act 11683, which lapsed into law on April 10, 2022, is based on Senate Bill 255 filed by Lacson in July 2019, as well as on House Bill 8207.

“By opening the doors to cityhood for qualified municipalities, the new law allows the local governments to fully operationalize their functions. As such, we address the inequity in national resources, we provide a greater number of our people the effectual impact of being a city – better delivery of public services and a fair share of our progress,” said Lacson, a champion of empowering local government units.

Related: Mga Munisipalidad, Mas Madali Na Maging Siyudad Dahil sa Bagong Batas ni Ping
Continue reading “Lacson Bill Easing Requirements for Cityhood Becomes Law” →

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Lacson Campaign in Masbate, Samar

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Sen. Ping Lacson, with senatoriables Minguita Padilla and Manny Pinol, visited Masbate and Samar on April 30, 2022. Their schedules included courtesy calls and town hall meetings.

Statements

Ping, Mas Dumarami Pa Ang Nakumbinsing Mga Botante sa Bicol

Mas dumarami pa ang nakumbinsing mga botante ni independent presidential candidate Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson nang bumisita siya sa Bicol nitong Biyernes.

Ayon kay Lacson at senatorial bet Minguita Padilla, maganda ang naging pagtanggap ng mga residente ng Catanduanes at Camarines Sur sa kanilang pakikipag-usap sa mga ito sa naganap na townhall meeting sa lugar.

“Sa una, parang kaunti lang ang responses na narinig, yung reactions. But then after the open forum, something really changed, talagang na-reversed ang situation, so we would like to think na yung conversation napakalaki. Kasi naiba talaga, very very visible,” ani Lacson.

Related: Lacson Wins Converts in Bicol
Continue reading “Ping, Mas Dumarami Pa Ang Nakumbinsing Mga Botante sa Bicol” →