LP leaders downplay defections

Stalwarts of the ruling Liberal Party yesterday downplayed the socalled mass defection of local officials and administration lawmakers to support the teamup of Senators Grace Poe and Chiz Escudero in the 2016 polls.

Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone and Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali belittled the exodus of their allies to the Nationalist People’s Coalition, saying that many local leaders are also defecting to the ruling party.

“The so-called defection from LP to NPC is not alarming. In fact, more and more local leaders from other political parties are joining LP,” Evardone said.

He disclosed that more than 20 Mindanaoan mayors from NPC have joined LP.

“Just last night more than 20 mayors from Mindanao took their oath as LP from NPC,” Evardone noted.

“We are very certain that LP is solidly behind Mar because we believe that he is very capable of continuing the reforms of PNoy,” he pointed out.

Umali described as “usual” scenario the flight of at least 200 local officials from different political parties, including the LP, to the 23year old NPC, the perceived political group that would fully support Poe-Escudero tandem.

The chairman of the House Committee on Energy expressed strong belief that the LP is now addressing the supposed defection of its members.

“That’s usual realignments that happen during election. I am not sure of its extent and of its impact on the party. I am sure though the party will have counter measures... as in fact many are also defecting to LP,” Umali said.