More Political Party Switching Among Philippine Politicians As 2010 Election Approaches

November 18, 2009 3:04 p.m. EST

Manila, Philippines (AHN) - More Philippine politicians switched parties on Wednesday the day after Nationalista Party presidential candidate Manuel Villar announced his selection of National People's Coalition vice presidential bet Loren Legarda as his running mate.

Villar's tactical alliance with Legarda - known for her environmental crusades - left the NPC with no official candidates since party standard bearer Francis Escudero left the NPC a few days back to run as an independent candidate.

Among the latest to bolt the administration party are Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte and Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista. Both joined the Liberal Party, which is leading in surveys.

Aside from the Quezon City politicians, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos and husband Ralph Recto also left the Lakas-Kampi coalition for the Liberal Party.

Other major Philippine politicians who joined LP are ex-Senator Jose Lina, Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio, Misamis Oriental Mayor Ruthie Guingona and Pasay City Vice Mayor Antonio Calixto.

The Philippine national election is scheduled on May 2010.