If you have been glued to social media and trending news platforms over the past few days, last termer congressman and homegrown mayorable Carmelo Jon Lazatin’s ‘Dream Team’ has been revealed, indicating a significant development in Angeles City’s local politics come May 12, 2025 polls.
The power-packed lineup emphasizes the strength and effectiveness of the team, implying that it consists of capable, influential incumbents and familial political bloodlines capturing the excitement and anticipation surrounding Lazatin’s team, hinting at more initiatives and innovations in the city.
With a focus on inclusivity and sustainable development, the lineup signals a strategic shift in the city’s governance amidst the transition of roles between Angeles City mayor Carmelo Pogi Lazatin Jr., who is running for Congress, and Cong Jon, who is running for mayor.
The initial barangay consultative meetings this week alone, around 20 or more, drew widespread attention from citizens and stakeholders alike. Cong Jon, known for his commitment to community engagement and visionary leadership, emphasized the importance of assembling a diverse and talented team to tackle the city’s most pressing challenges facing ahead.
This is a pivotal moment for our city because the ‘Dream Team’ represents various fields, united by a shared vision for our city’s future. Together, they will work tirelessly to stimulate advancement, foster economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for all Angeleños.
Be that as it may, I hope they will prioritize urban planning and sustainability in designing a resilient city and combating climate change, signaling their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Additionally, I hope they sustain or surpass what has been achieved and what will be accomplished in the remaining months by the sterling performance and leadership of Mayor Pogi and his hardworking team, including Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, Executive Assistant V Raffy Angeles, Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, and other key officials. It’s crucial that they continue the momentum of progress, ensuring the city thrives economically, socially, and environmentally, while also fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration.
The “Dream Team” also includes seasoned community leaders and social entrepreneurs, reflecting their inclusive approach to governance. Each of them brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table, underscoring their commitment to fostering collaboration and further development.
Top Bets
In the hypothetical scenario of the 2025 mid-term polls, the top 10 contenders for the city council, often referred to as ‘top bets,’ would typically include individuals with significant political experience, strong community support, and a compelling platform. Here are a few potential candidates who could emerge as top contenders, “listed alphabetically to avoid indicating potential election results”:
Councilors JC Aguas, Niknok Bañola, Doc Mich Bonifacio, Chris Cortez, Raco Del Rosario, Alex Indiongco, Edu Pamintuan, Ron Pineda, Alfred Sangil and Atty Pogs Suller.
As a re-electionist, vice mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting brings the advantage of incumbency, along with a track record of accomplishments and familiarity with the city’s issues. Her achievements and vision for the future undoubtedly position her as the leading vice-mayoral candidate for re-election.
Re-electionist Aguas and Bañola are seasoned lawmakers known for their advocacy on women empowerment, child protection and welfare, and community development issues. Both could emerge as formidable top bets. Their grassroots support and legislative experience appeal to voters seeking continuity.
Councilor Doc Mich Bonifacio, who will assume office by succession in the coming days for the unfinished term of soon-to-be board member Doc Alfie, is renowned for her compassionate leadership and unwavering dedication to oral health. She has established a reputation that transcends her role as the wife of Doc Alfie, who is currently vying for a provincial board seat in the 3rd district. Her legacy of service spans years, marked by her relentless involvement in numerous dental missions, both within Angeles City and in communities far beyond its borders. These missions serve as a powerful testament to her unyielding commitment to uplifting the underserved and marginalized, a commitment inseparable from her name. Her background and broad capacity to serve are tailored for education, environment, health, child and women welfare, trade and commerce and more.
Re-electionist councilors Cortez, Del Rosario, Indiongco, and Pamintuan are also long-serving lawmakers. They would likely capitalize on their name recognition and expertise in city governance during their campaigns. Emphasizing continuity, experience, and a proven track record of leadership would be key components of their campaign strategies.
Councilorables Pineda and Sangil known for grassroots organizing and advocacy on youth issues could energize progressive voters and youth demographics. Their campaign might prioritize inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
Re-electionist councilor Atty Pogs Suller is synonymous with advocating for affordable housing and access to legal aid. Atty Pogs has not only solidified his position but consistently ranked as number one, earning him the affectionate title ‘the housing czar.’ His initiatives like free legal assistance programs have been established, ensuring that even the most vulnerable members of society can seek justice. This dedication to fairness and equality underscores his belief that legal representation should be a fundamental right, not a privilege.
These are hypothetical scenarios regarding the upcoming local elections and the potential candidates for the city council. I must say these are few potential contenders who could emerge as top bets depending on the political landscape, voter sentiment, and campaign dynamics. We expect another party or third force to emerge in the coming days as the filing of the certificate of candidacy draws near. The actual contenders and their standings would be influenced by various factors, including campaign strategies, endorsements, and public perception.
Local observers and community leaders appreciate the deep understanding of local politics and the dynamics at play. This is an overview which could help active voters and soon-voters anticipate the political atmosphere leading up to the elections.