Filipino seeks seat in EU parliament

Aims to be voice of marginalized, migrants

MANILA, Philippines—Gene Alcantara, who holds dual Filipino and British citizenship, is running as independent candidate for a seat in the European Union Parliament when it holds its elections on June 4.

In an exchange of e-mails, the Laguna-born Filipino said his decision to raise his level of political participation is anchored on the belief that "I will have more impact on people's lives this way."

Alcantara, who has been living in the United Kingdom for the past 22 years, said he seeks to represent not only Filipinos but "other migrants and marginalized Londoners (who) do not have a voice in politics."

Specifically, he is seeking to represent all of London, some parts of Middlesex, Essex, Surrey, and Kent.

Alcantara said he is relying on the estimated 250,000 Filipinos who have acquired British or European citizenships in these areas to vote for him.

"That number would hopefully be sufficient to secure a seat if we could get them and their relatives, friends and colleagues to support me in the elections," he said.

Clean and honest politics, fairness for every Londoner, safety for children, decent dental and health care, and affordable education are among the issues he espouses.

source: Inquirer.net