Sarangani Province – Several prominent local candidates officially filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COC) on October 3, 2024, solidifying their bids for key positions in the upcoming 2025 elections. The candidates represent a diverse slate, with a mix of experienced and new contenders vying for congressional, gubernatorial, and provincial board seats.
Among those who submitted their COC are:
- Congressman: Steve Chiongbian Solon (Lakas-CMD), seeking re-election for Sarangani’s lone congressional district.
- Governor: Rogelio “Ruel” D. Pacquiao (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas or PFP), current Sarangani Governor, is running for another term to continue his leadership in the province.
- Vice Governor: Danny “Bogie” Martinez (PCM), aiming to secure the Vice-Governor position.
The provincial board races also saw a full lineup of candidates for both districts:
- First District Board Members:
- Elmer De Peralta (PFP)
- Arnold Abequibel (PFP)
- Tito Balazon (PFP)
- Cornelio Martinez Jr. (PFP)
- Second District Board Members:
- Joseph Calanao (PFP)
- Irish Louie Arnado (PFP)
- Corazon Grafilo (PFP)
- Ephraim Galzote (PFP)
- Gwynn Singcoy (PFP)
- Jose Tranquilino Ruiz (PFP)
The candidates, primarily from the PFP (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas), are expected to campaign heavily in the lead-up to the elections, focusing on various platforms including economic development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements in Sarangani.
As the election period progresses, the province will witness intense campaigning as these candidates vie for the support of the Sarangani electorate.
