MANILA -- Nacionalista Party standard bearer Senator Manny Villar was urged by his own senatoriable to face the C-5 controversy hearing before the Senate.

“Face it up in the Senate. Don't avoid it. Don't explain to the media. Face it in the Senate,” said Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo.

Ocampo said he relayed the message to Minority Floor Leader Rollie Zamora but until now, Villar is yet to appear in the Senate hearing.

“If you want to be President, act responsibly and show leadership,” he added.

Not fighting for his side on an issue is Villar's way of handling the controversy, according to Ocampo.

“He is being fought right now. If you are being fought upon, you should fight,” he said.

Ocampo expressed concern that Villar's refusal to face the issue could also have an effect on his and Gabriela Representative Liza Maza's senatorial bid.

Ocampo and Maza are the bets of militant political alliance Makabayan.

Earlier, Makabayan signed an alliance based on platform with the Nacionalista Party. (Angela Casauay/Sunnex)