Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 16, 2024 6:26 pm GMT
In a significant political development, former Vice President Leni Robredo has officially announced her candidacy for mayor of Naga City for the 2025 elections. This marks her return to local politics, stirring excitement among her supporters and concern among political rivals.
Robredo’s Team Naga Slate
Robredo is leading a slate of candidates known as Team Naga, which consists of experienced public servants she believes will effectively serve the community. Camarines Sur 3rd District Representative Gabriel Bordado Jr. will be her running mate for vice mayor. Bordado has a rich history in local governance, having previously served as vice mayor alongside Robredo’s late husband, Jesse Robredo, a well-respected former mayor of Naga City.
According to Robredo, her team was meticulously chosen based on ethical standards, governance experience, and capability. In a recent Facebook post, she stated, “The people who I am joined by were all evaluated based on three categories: ethical standards, capacity and experience in governance.”
The Team Naga lineup includes:
- Incumbent council members Jess Albeus, Gayle Abonal-Gomez, Omar Buenafe, Jose Perez, and Oying Rosales.
- Former Councilor Miles Raquid-Arroyo.
- City Administrator Elmer Baldemoro.
- City Budget Officer Frank Mendoza.
- City Health Officer Dr. Butch Borja.
- Lawyer Areiz Macaraig.
Robredo’s campaign is built on strong community foundations. Her office disclosed that the slate was created following extensive consultations with over 2,000 residents and various organizations in Naga City.
A Shift Against Political Dynasties
The upcoming elections are witnessing a wave of candidates challenging established political dynasties. One notable challenger is Architect Paul Octaviano, who is running for the gubernatorial seat in Negros Occidental. He has expressed his determination to combat political dynasties and vote-buying in the area.
Octaviano will face incumbents in the race, including Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson, who is seeking re-election, and Ferdenand “Bongbong Gorilla” Diego, a farmer from Candoni.
Another political contest brewing in Negros Occidental is the challenge to the Tabujara family in Cauayan. Businessman Jurry Nabaja and his running mate Vicente Perez are joining the fray against incumbent Mayor John Rey Tabujara and Vice Mayor Analiza Tabujara-Soriano, both of whom are eyeing re-election.
Engaging the Next Generation
The trend of challengers aiming for change also extends to younger candidates. John Barry Tayam, a 28-year-old high school teacher, has filed to run for the congressional seat in Las Piñas, an area long dominated by the Aguilar and Villar political clans. Tayam emphasizes the importance of involving younger representatives in government.
“Kailangan may isa or may mag-step up na from younger generation kasi kami ‘yung future leaders po (There needs to be one or anyone who would step up from the younger generation because we’re the future leaders),” he noted, stressing the need for fresh perspectives in the political arena.
Implications for the Future
The landscape of Philippine politics is evolving, especially as figures like Robredo return to local governance. Her candidacy signifies a resurgence in interest for reform among voters who seek leaders with integrity and experience. As political challengers emerge against longstanding dynasties, the upcoming elections could reshape local governance throughout the Philippines.
With the filing period for certificates of candidacy still open until October 8, many candidates are likely to surface, pushing for their agendas against established political families.
Leni Robredo’s return to Naga City politics, along with her Team Naga slate and the rising number of challengers, illustrates a growing desire for change. The community’s support and engagement will be crucial as the election approaches, highlighting the importance of civic involvement in shaping local governance.
Leni Robredo has many great ideas and plans. You can learn more about her and what she stands for by checking out her official Facebook page.
