Manila: AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee announced on Monday that he is withdrawing his senatorial bid, citing the lack of machinery to secure a successful campaign. In a press conference in Manila, Lee stated that he would instead concentrate on the party’s reelection efforts to ensure the continuation of its agriculture and food security advocacies.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lee shared his insights gathered during visits across the country, where he realized the absence of adequate resources to effectively introduce himself and his advocacies to the wider public. He emphasized the need for more time to engage with fellow Filipinos and build a successful campaign infrastructure. Lee expressed his commitment to championing the causes of farmers, fisherfolk, and local food producers, whom he describes as “food security soldiers,” to achieve affordable food for all.

Under Lee’s leadership, the AGRI Party-list has been instrumental in spearheading significant legislative measures, including the New Agrarian Emancipation Act (RA 11953) and the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (RA 11985). His ongoing legislative efforts focus on the passage of the ‘Cheaper Rice Act,’ ‘Post-harvest Facilities Act,’ ‘Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act,’ and ‘Fishing Shelters and Ports Act.’

On Monday, Lee formalized his withdrawal from the Senate race by filing a Statement of Withdrawal at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) main office in Intramuros, Manila. In an interview following this action, Lee explained that after serious reflection, it became evident that the resources and time required to reach the electorate and share his advocacy are currently insufficient.

In a separate interview, Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia clarified that although Lee’s name will appear on the official ballots for the May polls, any votes cast for him will not be counted. “Votes for him will be deemed as stray votes,” Garcia noted.