*Chooses Conscience Over Party Lines
Tagum City, Davao del Norte – In a rare move that underscored principle over politics, Davao del Norte 1st District Board Member Tristan Royce “Bong” Aala announced his resignation from the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) during the 3rd regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Delivering a privilege speech that drew attention from colleagues, Aala said his decision was a product of deep reflection rather than political bitterness or strategy.
“I believe that political affiliation should never be a prison, nor should it be a veil for silence, compromise, or moral hesitation,” Aala declared, his words resonating inside the session hall.
The young board member explained that stepping away from partisan obligations would allow him to serve with greater authenticity, anchored only on the trust of the people.
“My loyalty remains where it has always belonged: to the people I serve. Not to colors, not to alliances, not to slogans—but to the voice of the ordinary citizen, to the principles of integrity and good governance,” he said.
While his exit from Lakas-CMD marks a significant political shift, Aala framed the move not as a breakaway, but as a call for public officials to put conscience and the common good above party loyalty.
His speech was met with quiet reflection among members of the provincial board, with observers noting its strong message at a time when political alliances dominate the country’s governance landscape.
