2025 Metro Manila Mayoral Race: A New Dawn of Power, Legacy, and Leadership

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In a dramatic political showdown that captivated the nation, the 2025 local elections in Metro Manila have reshaped the capital’s political map, ushering in a mix of fresh faces, returning powerhouses, and dynastic continuity. As the dust settles, the metro's 17 cities and municipality have unveiled their newly elected mayors — a blend of reformists, veterans, and political heirs — signaling a decisive shift in the region's leadership landscape.

The Reformist Vanguard Returns: Vico Sotto and Isko Moreno

Pasig City residents have spoken — again. Mayor Vico Sotto, the beacon of transparent governance and millennial-led reform, retains his seat in a landslide. His triumph is not just a re-election but a resounding endorsement of good governance, data-driven policies, and anti-corruption advocacy. Sotto’s continued leadership strengthens hopes for further digital transformation and efficient public service in one of the metro’s most progressive cities.

Across the river in the capital, Isko Moreno makes a stunning political comeback in Manila. After an earlier stint that captured global admiration for his urban cleanliness drive and rapid city rehabilitation, Moreno’s return marks a revival of his populist brand of leadership — grounded in his humble roots and flamboyant charisma.

Dynasties Reinforced: Legacy in Motion

Several cities have chosen to keep it in the family. Nancy Binay, a longtime senator, now steps into the mayoralty of Makati, taking the torch from her brother, Junjun Binay, and continuing the Binay dynasty’s deep-rooted grip on the country’s financial capital.

In Las Piñas, April Aguilar cements the Aguilar-Villar family’s political supremacy, while Menchie Abalos in Mandaluyong continues the legacy of her husband, now MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos. Their re-election is a testament to their constituents’ trust in consistency, despite the ever-growing clamor for new blood.

Along Malapitan, securing Caloocan, and John Rey Tiangco dominating Navotas, underscore the persistence of political dynasties that have long shaped their localities’ directions.

The Power Women of 2025: Metro Manila's New Female Titans

The 2025 elections spotlighted the rise of empowered women in leadership. Aside from Binay, Lani Cayetano in Taguig, Joy Belmonte in Quezon City, Jeannie Sandoval in Malabon, Emi Calixto-Rubiano in Pasay, and Maan Teodoro in Marikina have emerged victorious, affirming their political relevance and growing influence in patriarchal political terrain.

These women are not just placeholders for political continuity — they have each carved their own brands of governance, from Cayetano’s smart city vision to Belmonte’s inclusive city programs. Their victories serve as milestones in the broader struggle for gender parity in Philippine politics.

Veterans, Rising Stars, and Strategic Shifts

In San Juan, Francis Zamora once again proved his mettle in a city formerly dominated by the Estrada dynasty, solidifying his position as a capable, independently rising political figure.

Wes Gatchalian's re-election in Valenzuela ensures the Gatchalian legacy remains intact, while former congressman and now Muntinlupa mayor Ruffy Biazon continues to wield strategic leadership in his longtime turf.

In Parañaque, Edwin Olivarez returns to city hall after a congressional stint, reinforcing the Olivarez family's stronghold. Gerald German, a newer name, takes the reins in Pateros, the metro’s lone municipality, signaling possible change and fresh ideas for the area.

What This Means for Metro Manila — and the Nation

This dynamic ensemble of elected mayors — a potent mix of youth and experience, innovation and tradition — represents both the promise and paradox of Metro Manila politics. While some cities have clearly voted for continuity, others are signaling transformation. The result is a political mosaic reflective of the Philippine electorate’s desire for both change and stability.

More than a race for power, the 2025 Metro Manila elections were a test of trust, legacies, and leadership styles. As these 17 local executives prepare to face the challenges of urban congestion, climate resilience, digital transformation, and post-pandemic recovery, all eyes will be on their ability to collaborate, innovate, and deliver on their promises.

With the next three years crucial for development, the collective performance of Metro Manila’s new leaders will not only shape the region’s destiny — it could also chart the course for national politics.

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EcoSilya: Upuan Para sa Bayan – The Chair That’s Changing the World One Plastic Bottle at a Time

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In a world drowning in plastic waste, where environmental degradation often seems unstoppable, a quiet revolution is taking shape—one chair at a time. And it’s coming straight from the heart of Caloocan City.

The JBC Workers' Union, long recognized for its commitment to sustainability and social impact, has launched a groundbreaking initiative that marries innovation with environmental responsibility. Introducing the “EcoSilya”, an eco-friendly chair made entirely from 100% recycled plastic waste—a bold testament to the power of community action and circular economy.

A Chair with a Mission

More than just furniture, the EcoSilya is a symbol of hope and sustainability. Each chair is crafted from rigid and flexible plastic waste, giving discarded materials a new purpose and preventing up to 6 kilograms of plastic from polluting our planet.

Imagine this: what was once a plastic bottle tossed aside with little thought now stands tall as a durable, weather-resistant, and stylish chair that can be used both indoors and outdoors. With a sleek, minimalistic design, the EcoSilya is more than just functional—it’s a statement piece for the environmentally conscious.

Why the EcoSilya Stands Out

This recycled marvel offers more than just a place to sit. It delivers:

100% Recycled Plastic Composition – Turning waste into a resource.

Durability and Weather Resistance – Perfect for all settings, from classrooms and offices to gardens and community centers.

Minimalist Design – Stylish yet simple, blending seamlessly with any environment.

A Push Toward Sustainability – Every EcoSilya helps reduce plastic pollution and promotes responsible consumption.

Not for Sale—For Something Bigger

In a radical shift from traditional consumerism, the JBC Workers' Union isn't selling the EcoSilya. Instead, they’re fostering a “Circular Economy.” The chairs are not for sale, but can be earned through meaningful contribution.

To receive your very own EcoSilya, you’ll need to donate 25 EcoBricks—plastic bottles tightly packed with non-biodegradable waste. This ingenious barter system transforms waste into value, and community members into stewards of sustainability.

This initiative isn't just a transaction—it’s a transformation. It’s about creating a new culture where waste is no longer seen as trash, but as raw material for something beautiful, functional, and enduring.

The Impact: A Community Built on Action

Each EcoSilya represents a collective victory against plastic pollution. At approximately 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width, secured with sturdy black screws, the chair stands proudly as a product of community action and environmental integrity.

This is grassroots innovation at its finest. From the workers who produce the chairs to the families collecting EcoBricks, everyone becomes part of a growing movement—a movement to reclaim the environment, restore dignity to discarded materials, and reshape our future.

Get Involved

Want to make a difference and earn your own EcoSilya?

📞 Call: (02) 8936-7308 to 09 loc. 61

📍 Visit: 584 Llano Road, Brgy. 167, Caloocan City

📘 Facebook: JBC Workers Union

Let your contribution be more than just waste. Let it be a seat at the table of change.

Because when we sit together on something built from what was once thrown away, we rise together towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

FACT-CHECK: Debunking the DDS Propaganda on the Free College Law (RA 10931)

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A dramatic reckoning with truth in the age of political revisionism

In the turbulent world of Philippine politics, where spin often overshadows substance, few legislative victories have sparked as much heated misinformation as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), commonly known as the Free College Law. Touted as one of the landmark policies for social mobility in the country, this law has now become the latest battlefield for political credit-grabbing—and the Duterte Diehard Supporters (DDS) are at it again.

Their goal? Rewriting history to cast former President Rodrigo Duterte as the mastermind behind the Free College Law. But truth, when unearthed and laid bare, tells a dramatically different story.

Let’s cut through the fog of propaganda and lay the facts on the table.

CLAIM 1: "Bam Aquino is not the only one who authored the bill—why is he getting all the credit?"

FACT-CHECK:

This statement is a classic case of half-truths twisted to mislead.

Yes, multiple senators co-authored the bill. That’s how legislation works—many can support and file similar proposals. But Senator Bam Aquino was not just a co-author. He was the principal sponsor and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education during the bill’s critical life stages. These positions are far from ceremonial.

Bam didn’t just sign his name on paper—he wrote, revised, defended, and fought tooth and nail for the bill through long committee hearings, Senate floor debates, and bicameral conferences. He answered questions, dismantled opposition, and built consensus. In legislative terms, he was the bill’s architect and general contractor.

Giving him credit isn’t about erasing others—it’s about recognizing who laid the bricks, who held the blueprint, and who saw it through.

CLAIM 2: "Duterte should be credited because he allocated the budget for the law."

FACT-CHECK:

This claim distorts the constitutional process for budgeting.

The President proposes, but it is Congress that disposes. Under the Philippine Constitution, the power of the purse lies with the Legislature, not the Executive. While the Duterte administration eventually released funds, this was after the law was passed and amid enormous public pressure.

Let’s also not forget: Budget Secretary Ben Diokno initially opposed the bill, raising concerns about its sustainability. Duterte's camp wasn't exactly cheering from the sidelines when the idea was taking shape.

Approving a budget for an enacted law is not a magnanimous gesture. It is a constitutional duty. So no, allocating the budget doesn’t make Duterte the hero of this story—it makes him a character who, thankfully, didn’t derail the plot.

CLAIM 3: "Why didn’t Bam Aquino pass this during PNoy’s time?"

FACT-CHECK:

Here’s a timeline that matters: Bam Aquino was elected in 2013. The law passed during the 17th Congress (2016–2019). During the Aquino administration, the focus was on targeted financial aid for poor students, such as the ESGPPA scholarship program.

Back then, the national budget and political appetite weren’t ready for a sweeping reform like universal free tuition. But once 2016 hit, and the political landscape shifted, Bam Aquino seized the momentum and rallied support across party lines.

This wasn’t about procrastination—it was about timing, strategy, and political reality.

CLAIM 4: "The law only became real because Duterte signed it."

FACT-CHECK:

This is one of the most misleading narratives floating around—and it’s legally flimsy, too.

Under Article VI, Section 27(1) of the Constitution, any bill passed by Congress automatically becomes law after 30 days if the President neither signs nor vetoes it. So yes, Duterte signed it—but had he done nothing, the bill would’ve lapsed into law anyway.

More importantly, the bill passed unanimously in the Senate and had broad public support. At that point, resisting it would’ve been political suicide. Duterte’s signature was not the act of a champion—it was a formality shaped by pressure.

CLAIM 5: "Duterte deserves credit for not vetoing it."

FACT-CHECK:

Should we really give out medals for not sabotaging good laws?

If this logic stands, then every president should be showered with credit for every law they didn’t veto. That’s absurd. Duterte faced massive public approval for the bill and internal pushback from his own Cabinet.

In the end, not vetoing the law wasn’t an act of leadership—it was a political calculation. Choosing not to obstruct progress isn’t the same as driving it.

BOTTOM LINE:

The truth isn’t ambiguous, and it shouldn’t be muddied by blind loyalty or post-facto credit theft.

The Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931) owes its existence to:

The vision and persistence of Senator Bam Aquino,

The collective will of Congress, and

The clamor of a public long denied access to affordable education.

Rodrigo Duterte did not conceptualize it. His administration was not its champion. He signed it only after it passed with resounding support. That doesn’t make him the father of the law—it makes him a reluctant witness to history.

In an era where propaganda masquerades as truth, facts still matter. And on this issue, the facts speak loudly:

The Free College Law was Congress-led, people-powered, and Bam Aquino-driven—not a gift from Duterte.

Let’s stop rewriting history to suit political agendas. The Filipino youth deserve the truth.