Comedian and television host Vice Ganda has thrown her support behind the Angkasangga Party-list, a group advocating for the rights and welfare of informal workers. But according to Angkas CEO and Angkasangga first nominee George Royeca, the endorsement wasn’t about star power—it was about shared values.
In a virtual media conference held on April 13, Royeca emphasized that Vice Ganda’s involvement stems from a mutual commitment to improving the lives of workers in the informal sector.
“Vice is one of the biggest stars in the country, but that’s not why we approached her,” Royeca said. “She’s intelligent, socially aware, and vocal about current issues. We’ve had many conversations, and we share the same advocacy.”
Angkasangga Party-list is campaigning to push legislation that will benefit millions of Filipinos who work without traditional employment structures—including delivery riders, tricycle drivers, freelancers, artists, content creators, and other non-salaried workers.
According to Royeca, over 17 million Filipinos were part of the informal labor force as of 2019—a number that has likely grown in recent years. He said the group’s goal is to ensure these workers have access to education, healthcare, housing, insurance, and a sustainable safety net.
“Vice belongs to this sector. As a performer and freelance artist, she understands what it means to work without the guarantees salaried workers enjoy,” Royeca said.
He added that Vice does not require scripting during campaign rallies, as she speaks from personal experience and genuine concern for the sector.
In a separate interview, Vice Ganda revealed that numerous party-lists had approached her for endorsements, but she turned them down after questioning their authenticity.
“Ang dami ring lumalapit sa akin na mga party-list na pinagdududahan ko rin,” Vice said in her vlog. “Parang ang layo sa pagkatao nila ‘yung party-list na binibitbit nila. Gamitan na lang minsan.”
She said her decision to support Angkasangga was rooted in trust and alignment with its mission.
Vice also requested that Royeca support the passage of the long-delayed SOGIE Equality Bill. While appreciated, Royeca noted that his support for the LGBTQIA+ community is longstanding.
Royeca also shared that he once encouraged Vice Ganda to run for public office, admiring her grasp of political issues and passion for social causes.
“Sabi ko nga sa kanya, ‘Andami mong sinasabi, bakit di ka tumakbo?’” Royeca recalled with a laugh. “But I believe she has a bigger platform now. Maybe her time will come.”
Angkasangga has emerged as a strong contender in the upcoming May 12 elections. A recent OCTA Research survey shows the party-list climbing the ranks, driven by support from millions of motorcycle riders and informal workers across the country.
Among its proposed legislative priorities are:
- The Motorcycle Taxi Law, to regulate ride-hailing services
- The Delivery Riders’ Protection Act, to ensure fair labor standards
- The Magna Carta for TODAs, to formalize and empower tricycle drivers
Support has also come from influential political figures and celebrities, including former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and the Recto family—Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto, and their sons Luis and Ryan Christian.
Still, Royeca insists the campaign’s strength lies in grassroots support.
“We’re hosting town halls and consultations nationwide. We listen to riders, tricycle drivers, freelancers—people who’ve long been ignored by policymakers,” he said.
With Vice Ganda’s endorsement and growing support from both the public and policy advocates, Royeca says Angkasangga is determined to be the voice of the underserved.
“People are tired of being used. They want leaders who listen, act, and fight for them,” he said. “That’s exactly what we’re here to do.”
Angkasangga Party-list is running in the May 12, 2025 elections. For more information on its platforms and legislative agenda, visit their official social media pages.
