Hot political dramas unfold  in NCR mayoralty contests

Aside from the family feuds of the Binays in Makati, the Aguilar families in Las Pinas, and the sister-in-law rebellion in Paranaque, there are also very  interesting matchups of dueling couples, such as the Teodoros and Quimbos in Marikina and the Sandovals and Noels in Malabon. Other exciting matches are the impending clash of PBA superstars Francis Zamora and Philip Cezar in San Juan, the destroyed family friendships of the Lacuna and Moreno families in Manila, and the “revenge story of the contractor and nervous mayor” in the Sotto-Discaya tussle in Pasig.

Another much-awaited political contest is in Taguig, where incumbent mayor Lani Cayetano is confronted with a larger voter base (200,000) from newly assigned EMBO barangays from Makati. Will these votes go to her arch-enemy, the Ceraficas, especially if endorsed by the Binays? 

Interestingly, Lani’s brother-in-law, former mayor Lino Cayetano will be running as Congressman in the first district against her choice. In the 2nd district covering the new EMBO barangays, another former colleague, incumbent Rep. Pammy Zamora is also against Lani’s candidate. A tricky and controversial political situation that will be known come election day.

So far, incumbents who are running unopposed with token competition are Joy Belmonte of Quezon City (third term) , Emma Rubiano-Calixto of Pasay (third term) , Menchie Abalos of Mandaluyong, Ruffy Biazon of Muntinlupa (second term) John Rey Tiangco of Navotas (second term) , Weslie Gatchalian of Valenzuela (second term)  These mayors are all expected to remain in their posts, with no need for further campaigning.

Political Power Play in  BARMM and Davao Del Norte

A noticeable shift in power dynamics is underway in Davao Del Norte, led by Antonio Lagdameo, Special Assistant to the President. While much attention has been directed toward the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Lagdameo is strategically positioning his brother, JM Lagdameo, to run for Congress in the 2nd district.

Typically, this would be straightforward; however, there’s a significant snag—current Congressman Allan Dujali still has one term remaining. So how does the Lagdameo camp clear the way for JM? The plan is to persuade Dujali to challenge sitting Governor Edwin Jubahib in the upcoming elections. This maneuver is not purely political—it’s also personal. This move by Dujali could theoretically serve as an attempt to avenge the loss suffered by Lagdameo’s cousin, Rodney Del Rosario, in 2018 while paving the way for JM to secure the congressional seat without any competition. 

However, let’s be crystal clear: this is no ordinary political reshuffle. Governor Jubahib is a seasoned politician who won’t be easily dethroned. Why would Congressman Dujali gamble on such a risky endeavor? Reports suggest that pressure tactics may have directly influenced this situation—there are whispers of threats involving budget freezes if Dujali doesn’t comply with this plan.

It’s rumored that Lagdameo’s camp sent Minda Secretary Leo Magno to deliver a veiled ultimatum: run for governor or face potential cuts to Davao Del Norte’s budget allocations over the next three years. This tactic starkly illustrates a concerning trend in Philippine politics, where government funds are manipulated for personal ambitions, using public welfare as mere bargaining chips in a high-stakes game.

Backing up these claims is a now-deleted Facebook post from Ella Dujali-Mangubat, the congressman’s sister. Her poignant message alluded to significant political pressure faced by the Dujali family, warning that resisting the administration could have dire consequences for the people of Davao Del Norte, including halted funding and stalled projects. The swift disappearance of her post highlights the intensity of the power struggle playing out behind the scenes.

This raises critical questions: Why would a two-term congressman suddenly agree to challenge a well-entrenched governor?  What drives Dujali to risk everything against an opponent backed by established political machinery? Moreover, why is JM Lagdameo being positioned for a congressional seat before proving himself in a competitive political arena? Are these moves part of a broader strategy designed to shift power dynamics in favor of the Lagdameo family? These suspicions cannot simply be dismissed as political gossip; they reflect deep-rooted issues within the system that warrant serious attention.

Rumors are circulating that Congressman Dujali has been offered enticing incentives: if he runs for governor and wins, he could unlock significant funding for the province. However, such promises come with severe risks. If he fails to unseat Jubahib, Davao Del Norte could face financial isolation, jeopardizing essential services and community projects for years to come. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the atmosphere is tense as ambition clashes with desperation.

As residents of Davao Del Norte watch this political chess game unfold, there’s a palpable sense of déjà vu. This scenario echoes the strong-arm tactics that have long tainted Philippine politics, where powerful families manipulate circumstances to secure their positions and consolidate power. For the citizens of this region, such maneuvers are all too familiar; they’ve witnessed countless political families rise and fall, often resorting to questionable tactics to maintain control.

Importantly, amid these political machinations, the critical aspect that can’t be overlooked is the voice of the people. In a democratic society, it’s the voters who hold the ultimate power—their choices at the ballot box can either validate or dismantle the ambitions of those currently vying for position.

As elections draw near, the integrity of the electoral process will inevitably come under scrutiny. Voters must ask themselves whether these elections can truly be free and fair when political threats loom over candidates’ heads. It is essential for the citizens of Davao Del Norte—and the entire country—to remain vigilant and engaged. We must also ensure that our right to vote is protected and that elections are not influenced by any outside forces. We should demand transparency from  elected officials and refuse to accept a political climate steeped in intimidation and favoritism.

This is not merely about unseating an entrenched governor or electing a new congressman; it is about transforming the very fabric of political engagement in the region. With every vote cast, Filipinos have the chance to either perpetuate cycles of patronage or build a society governed by fairness, transparency, and accountability.

In this dynamic landscape, powerful families can no longer dominate the narrative. The rise of grassroots movements indicates a hunger for change; people are ready to challenge the old ways of doing politics. As citizens become more informed and engaged, they amplify their voices, demanding better governance and equitable representation.