In a highly anticipated showdown for the San Fernando mayoralty, former Lubao Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab and incumbent Mayor Vilma Caluag both filed their certificates of candidacy on October 7.
Pineda-Cayabyab kicked off her campaign earlier in the day, marching from the Capitol to the cathedral, accompanied by nearly 20,000 supporters, before heading to the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center for a proclamation rally.
Later in the afternoon, Caluag submitted her candidacy documents, flanked by family and supporters.
The rivalry between the Pineda and Caluag families has been dubbed the “Battle Royale,” capturing the attention of local voters. Mylyn’s strong backing from her father, Bong Pineda, a well-known political kingpin in Pampanga, adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming May 2025 elections, setting the stage for a contentious and closely watched campaign.