MABIGA, Mabalacat City– Around 10,000 supporters turned out for the proclamation rally of Team Geld Aquino and Jun Castro in Barangay Mabiga on Saturday afternoon, showcasing strong public backing for their local election bid. The event marked a crucial moment in their campaign as the race for the mayoralty heats up.
The latest Pulso ng Masa survey indicates that mayoral aspirant Geld Aquino holds a 9-point lead over incumbent Mayor Cris Garbo while Jun Castro is leading by comfortable 38 percent against Board Member Win Win Garbo. The numbers reflect a growing shift in voter preference, with Aquino gaining ground as Garbo faces mounting political and legal challenges.
Garbo is currently embroiled in multiple corruption cases filed before the Ombudsman, in addition to a petition before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) seeking the cancellation of his candidacy. Legal experts and political analysts suggest these cases could significantly impact his reelection bid.
Former election lawyer Arnold Bayubay argued that Garbo is no longer eligible to seek another term, having already served the three-term limit since 2017. If Comelec upholds this, Garbo could be disqualified from the race, further reshaping the city’s political landscape.
Businessman Bong Pineda, a known political figure in the province, expressed confidence in a landslide victory for the Aquino-Castro slate, predicting a 12-0 sweep in the local elections.