In the upcoming elections in Mabalacat City, two clear frontrunners have emerged: Incumbent or reelectionist—a legal issue, however, needing resolution for mayor Cris Garbo, and current vice mayor Geld Aquino. Once political allies, they have since parted ways due to businessman Rodolfo “Bong” Pineda’s support for Aquino, prompting him to challenge Garbo. Notably, Garbo has a long-standing political alliance with the Pinedas, adding complexity to the shifting dynamics. As a result, the political landscape has become increasingly contentious.
However, Garbo’s eligibility for another full term is under scrutiny. He first assumed the mayoral post after replacing ex-mayor Boking Morales, who was unseated, raising questions about whether Garbo’s current term should be counted as his second or third. If it is ruled that Garbo is already a full-termer, his candidacy could be disqualified. In anticipation of this possibility, Garbo’s running mate for vice mayor is his daughter, incumbent 1st district provincial board member Win-Win Garbo, positioning her to assume his post should he be disqualified or removed from office. This strategic move further complicates the election dynamics.
Moreover, Aquino has chosen No. 1 city councilor Jun Castro as his running mate for vice mayor—a controversial decision, as Castro previously filed a graft case against both Garbo and Aquino, along with the entire city council. Reports detail that Castro’s case involves alleged irregularities in the procurement of land for a government project, implicating Garbo and Aquino in questionable transactions. Curiously, despite the seriousness of these allegations, Castro has since gone silent, leading to speculation of a behind-the-scenes agreement to keep him quiet. Consequently, this silence raises further questions about the integrity of the Aquino campaign.
The graft case filed by Castro against Garbo, Aquino, and their fellow councilors is linked to a P2.07 billion loan from Landbank, designated for the construction of a new government center. Landbank has withheld this loan due to multiple stipulations, including an ongoing case involving the local government unit (LGU) or its officials. Moreover, this case arises from concerns over the acquisition of a 21,115-square-meter property in Barangay Camachile, funded by an additional P610 million loan from Landbank. Allegations regarding taxation issues and project management have heightened suspicions. Thus, the release of funds by Landbank is contingent on resolving this case and addressing any negative findings associated with the project.
This division between Garbo and Aquino has caused fractures within the city council. Some councilors remain loyal to Garbo, while others have distanced themselves from Aquino due to his choice of Castro. A few councilors are planning independent runs, while others, such as last-term councilor Benny Jocson and the son of Morales, have aligned themselves with Aquino, capitalizing on their Pineda connections. Notably, some SP members are in defiance of joining the Aquino-Castro team. As a result, the city council’s unity is increasingly under threat.
Amidst this political turmoil, a third candidate is quietly gaining momentum: veteran journalist Deng Pangilinan. As the founder and president of iOrbitNews, Pangilinan has been a consistent critic of corruption in Mabalacat, exposing allegations against both Garbo and Aquino. In the 2022 mayoral race, Pangilinan secured nearly 5,000 votes without engaging in vote-buying, demonstrating his credibility and grassroots support. This track record positions him favorably among the electorate.
Interestingly, both the Garbo and Aquino camps have reportedly offered Pangilinan positions to run for city councilor, recognizing his influence and voter base. However, he has remained independent, declining these offers to continue his anti-corruption campaign. This grassroots support is now forming the foundation for a growing movement. Disgruntled leaders from the Garbo, Aquino, and Morales camps are calling for a fresh leader—someone untainted by graft or political entanglements. In this context, as an independent candidate with a proven track record as a corruption watchdog, Pangilinan is increasingly viewed as the dark horse in this race.
Furthermore, it is essential to note that Pangilinan is not a political ally of the Pinedas but an acquaintance as a media man. However, in 2022, when he ran for mayor he supported the reelection of Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia Nanay Pineda. This nuance further distinguishes him from traditional political factions.
Pangilinan has the potential to split the votes between Garbo and Aquino, thereby amplifying his own support from the often-overlooked silent majority of Mabalaqueños.
Meanwhile, Morales struggles to rally votes for Aquino, as many of his loyal grassroots leaders have either passed away or migrated, further weakening Aquino’s position. Consequently, the political dynamics are shifting in unexpected ways.
With Garbo’s term under legal scrutiny, questions surrounding Castro’s silence on the graft case, and Win-Win Garbo’s strategic positioning as vice mayor, Pangilinan’s independent stance could position him as a strong contender.
Aquino’s political fate may ultimately hinge on whether his break from Garbo and alignment with Castro can overcome the doubts surrounding his camp.
In conclusion, could the combined pressure from disgruntled leaders and corruption allegations leave Aquino vulnerable, creating an opportunity for Pangilinan to rise? The political landscape in Mabalacat City is more unpredictable than ever.