MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga – Business tycoon and political powerbroker Rodolfo “Tatay Bong” Pineda has thrown his full support behind the Geld Aquino-Jun Castro team in the local political race, vowing to deliver a sweeping victory for their slate.
During a dinner meeting at Royce Hotel in Clark, Pineda assured the Bagong Henerasyon candidates that he would mobilize his network to secure their win. “Bastat tandanan ninyo, sama-sama ko kayong ipapanalo sa darating na eleksyon,” he said, citing positive feedback from community leaders.
Pineda underscored the team’s clean reputation, which he believes is resonating with voters. “Wala kayong bahid ng korapsyon,” he said. He also urged Aquino and Castro to maintain integrity in governance. “Pangako lang ninyo na suklian ninyo ng tapat at malinis na serbisyo ang mga taga Mabalacat, hinding-hindi ko kayo iiwanan sa laban na ito.”
The businessman did not hold back in his criticism of incumbent Mayor Crisostomo Garbo, who is seeking reelection despite legal and eligibility issues. “Eye pakyapusan itang mayor Garbo, balasubas, uling malapit ne milako iyan at pasukul kepa,” Pineda said, suggesting that Garbo’s political career is nearing its end.
Aquino and Castro’s ticket is currently leading the race, with a 15-percent advantage in the latest surveys. Pineda is confident in a “12-0” outcome for the Bagong Henerasyon city council slate, signaling strong public support for their lineup.
Garbo is facing multiple graft cases before the Ombudsman, including allegations linked to a controversial P2-billion Landbank loan for the construction of a new city hall. Eight city councilors were also implicated in what critics claim was an overpriced and non-transparent deal.
Mayoral aspirant Aquino argued that Garbo is no longer qualified to run, having already completed his three-term limit from 2016 to 2025. Vice mayoral candidate Castro echoed concerns over the city hall project. “Ala po transparency keng proyekto ayni, sasalikut dapo kekami ampo kekayu kabalen ku,” he said, denouncing the alleged irregularities.
With Pineda’s backing and growing survey numbers, the Aquino-Castro tandem is positioning itself as the frontrunner in Mabalacat City’s elections. Their promise of clean governance is expected to be a defining factor in the race against Garbo’s controversial administration.