‘Risa Na’ drive starts in Bacolod for Hontiveros’ 2028 presidential bid

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — About 3,000 Negrenses on Sunday (June 28) launched the “Risa Na” movement, formally kicking off a campaign to support Sen. Risa Hontiveros’ potential presidential bid in the 2028 elections.

The multisectoral gathering at Gonzaga Gym in Barangay Taculing here brought together supporters from various sectors to express their commitment to Hontiveros and promote what organizers described as “the aspirations of grassroots sectors for responsive, inclusive, and accountable leadership.”

Former Negros Occidental Board Member Mardi Mapa-Suplido of the Akbayan Citizens Action Party said the country needs a leader with integrity, intelligence, and courage.

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“The Filipino people should not elect a leader who comes from a family that engages in extrajudicial killings, steals from the nation, and lies,” Mapa-Suplido said.

According to her, Hontiveros is “the best candidate we can ever have,” describing her as a leader who is prepared to serve, is not part of a political dynasty, and has not been tainted by corruption.

Former Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano also endorsed Hontiveros, saying the country needs a leader who leaves no one behind.

“We should feel the sense of urgency, the sense of duty to work for the right leader to be elected into office,” Alejano said.

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Participants signed a manifesto expressing support for what they described as “leadership that is better, stronger, and more reliable.”

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“There must be a government that can be felt, service that is reliable, work with dignity, a community that is stable, and freedom of speech without fear,” the manifesto read, adding that these are the qualities they see in Hontiveros.

By signing the manifesto, supporters also committed to organizing “Risa Na” chapters in their respective communities as part of the movement’s preparations for the 2028 elections. /atm

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