Esberto Rafael B. Eubra Jr. with key officials of PDP Laban during the Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) National Assembly held on September 20.
DAVAO CITY – The Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) National Assembly, held on September 20, appointed Esberto Rafael B. Eubra Jr. as Vice Chairman of the National Committee on OFW Concern. This important appointment highlights Eubra's dedication to advocating for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and underscores his commitment to promoting renewable and sustainable energy solutions.
Eubra’s appointment, along with several others, was made by the National PDP Committee, which assigned leaders to various posts as part of their efforts to bolster party leadership. "I was appointed with others by the National PDP Committee to our respective posts," Eubra said, acknowledging the collective effort behind the appointments.
The assembly, led by former President Rodrigo R. Duterte at the D’Leonor Inland Resort, served as a platform to finalize the party’s candidate lineup for the upcoming 2025 elections. Duterte announced that the roster would be completed by October 8, highlighting the urgency and importance of preparing for the electoral battle ahead. The assembly attracted over 1,500 delegates from across the nation, reflecting the party's broad and inclusive representation.
Eubra's role as Vice Chairman aligns seamlessly with his long-standing advocacy for sustainable development, particularly in the energy sector. His experience in promoting renewable energy initiatives positions him uniquely to address the interconnected issues of labor rights and environmental sustainability. Eubra is dedicated to ensuring that policies aimed at supporting OFWs also take into account the importance of sustainable energy practices, creating a holistic approach to national development.
Strengthening Alliances for 2025 Elections
In addition to Eubra’s appointment, the assembly witnessed the formal alliance between PDP-Laban and three other political parties: Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan (PDDS), Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte-National Executive Coordinating Committee (MRRD-NECC), and Partido para sa Demokratikong Reporma. This coalition aims to consolidate efforts ahead of the upcoming elections, promising a united front to challenge opposing political forces.
The agreement was officially signed by key representatives, including Greco Belgica, former chairman of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), and Davao del Norte Representative Pantaleon Alvarez of Partido Reporma. Former President Duterte represented PDP-Laban and MRRD-NECC in this historic signing, underscoring the importance of cooperation in advancing their political agenda.
Key Appointments and Campaign Strategies
As part of the assembly’s outcomes, PDP-Laban appointed Senator Robinhood Padilla as the campaign manager for the party’s senatorial slate, which includes high-profile nominees such as Senators Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. These candidates are expected to play significant roles in the party’s bid for electoral success in 2025, and their backgrounds align with the party’s focus on public service and grassroots engagement.
Alfonso Cusi, PDP-Laban Vice Chairman, emphasized the importance of the new alliances and the formation of a special committee to continue accepting nominations from allied parties. This strategic move aims to broaden the pool of candidates and ensure a formidable presence in the upcoming elections, enhancing the party’s competitiveness.
Duterte’s Vision for the Future
Former President Duterte closed the assembly with a call to action, reiterating his dedication to supporting PDP-Laban candidates despite financial limitations. “We will raise the money. We’ll go on a shoestring budget. We will not ask for support from millionaires,” Duterte declared, reinforcing his resolve to run a grassroots campaign centered on the interests of the Filipino people.
The assembly also paved the way for the continued involvement of the Duterte family in the political landscape. Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte was named the party’s executive vice president, further highlighting the family’s enduring influence within PDP-Laban.
As the party moves forward with its plans, Eubra’s appointment as Vice Chairman of the National Committee on OFW Concern signals PDP-Laban’s commitment to addressing critical issues affecting overseas workers. His leadership in this area is expected to resonate with the millions of Filipinos who look to PDP-Laban for advocacy and representation. Eubra’s dual focus on the welfare of OFWs and the promotion of renewable energy highlights a progressive vision for the future, emphasizing that the growth of the nation should benefit both its people and the environment.
