Congressional aspirant Dr. Hazel Velasco Tumang officially filed her certificate of candidacy for Pampanga’s third district on October 5 before the provincial Commission on Elections, positioning herself as a challenger to Board Member Mica Gonzales.
The 39-year-old doctor, known for her monolid eyes and angelic face, humbly acknowledges that while she may not be a seasoned public speaker, she excels as a listener—a skill that serves her well both as a physician and a potential public servant.
Her distinctive eye shape, simple yet captivating, adds to her natural beauty. This enigmatic charm draws in both loyal supporters and those meeting her for the first time.
As an otolaryngologist specializing in conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat (ENT) as well as head and neck surgery, Cong Hazel’s work requires not only diagnosing ailments but also carefully addressing her patients’ concerns. This same approach is what she aims to bring into her political career—attentively addressing the pressing issues of her district with the care and precision she applies in medicine.
Cong Hazel, the soft-spoken daughter of multi-awarded Mexico Mayor Teddy Tumang, brings a fresh and new approach to the political arena. Like her father, who is admired for his pro-poor and philanthropic initiatives, she is widely appealing, approachable, and well-supported by her constituents. Mayor Teddy’s heartfelt service has earned him the admiration of barangay officials and residents, and Dr. Hazel follows in his footsteps with a genuine commitment to serve.
In contrast, her opponent hails from a traditional political family and is well known in the construction industry. While her opponent’s political connections run deep, Cong Hazel offers a different kind of leadership—one grounded in ethical governance and hands-on service, untainted by the trappings of entrenched political power.
Her background as a doctor provides a unique advantage in public service. Physicians prioritize the well-being of others, and this naturally translates into governance focused on the needs of the community. Doctors are trained to listen, diagnose, and solve problems, making them well-equipped to address societal challenges. This focus on healing and helping others is free from the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when a politician is also engaged in private business, particularly in industries like construction.
Meanwhile, being both a contractor and a board member, like Mica, the daughter of Senior Deputy Speaker Cong. Aurelio ‘Dong’ Gonzales, raises serious ethical concerns. The overlap between political power and business interests, especially in construction, presents potential conflicts of interest. Public servants involved in such industries may struggle to balance their public responsibilities with personal gain. This issue becomes even more critical under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits government officials from using their position to benefit private business ventures.
The potential for conflicts of interest is even more apparent in infrastructure projects funded by public money. Traditional politicians with ties to the construction industry could be tempted to favor their own companies or associates, undermining the transparency and fairness that public office demands. Such conflicts have historically led to substandard projects and misuse of taxpayer money—issues that Cong Hazel, with her clean slate and no ties to private business, can completely avoid.
While she may lack political experience, she also lacks any involvement in graft, corruption, or abuse of power—further strengthening her appeal as a candidate for change.
Her legislative agenda focuses on healthcare, with one of her key initiatives being the establishment of dialysis centers. She also emphasizes education, support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), social welfare, agriculture, shelter and Mexico’s cityhood. Her commitment to these areas demonstrates her deep understanding of the essential needs of her constituents and her desire to improve their quality of life.
Her candidacy offers a compelling alternative to the status quo. Her career as a physician not only emphasizes her dedication to improving the lives of her constituents but also shields her from the temptations of profiteering through public office.
Furthermore, the role of a congresswoman is primarily focused on legislation, setting her apart from project implementers and ensuring a clear separation from the responsibilities of the executive branch.
At a time when integrity in government is under increasing scrutiny, her lack of business entanglements ensures that her decisions will be made solely in the best interests of the people—not for personal gain.