DAVAO CITY –— The Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod Party (HTLP) has expelled the Al-ag siblings—Councilors Bernard E. Al-ag of the 1st District and Wilberto E. Al-ag of the 3rd District, along with Punong Barangay Lilibeth Al-ag of Toril Proper and Punong Barangay Bernadette Al-ag of Bankas Heights—due to their alignment with another political party.
In a statement issued by Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Secretary General of the party, the expulsion was carried out in accordance with the party’s Constitution and By-Laws after careful deliberation.
Reelectionist Councilor Wilberto Al-ag, the eldest among siblings, expressed that they made significant efforts to meet with the Duterte family, even visiting former President Rodrigo Duterte, who he claims did not want them expelled. “We tried our best to meet them (the children), but they do not want to meet us,” he said in vernacular.
The statement emphasized, “This action has been taken in strict adherence to Article 7 on Party Discipline and Loss of Membership, specifically Section 6, which outlines the grounds for automatic expulsion.” It cited Article 7, Section 6(b): “Assisting or helping other political parties or individuals who are not Hugpong members in the furtherance of their political aim or purpose without prior approval of the Party.”
The party confirmed that the expelled members had been actively supporting the Tingog Partylist, which is not aligned with Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod. Their involvement in promoting Tingog’s interests, rather than those of Hugpong, constitutes a violation of the party’s rules and principles.
Al-ag explained that they sought the help of Tingog Partylist for their constituents because they felt they were being given the runaround by HTL leadership. “Where do we bring those who need help?” he asked.
The Al-ag siblings have held political positions in the third district for decades. The Tingog Partylist is led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who is currently at odds with the Duterte family.
In contrast, the Hugpong party reiterated its commitment to supporting the Duterte-led Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandaragat (PPP).
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
