PORAC, Pampanga – Mayoral aspirant Mike Tapang is setting his sights on transforming Porac into Pampanga’s fourth city, alongside Mabalacat, San Fernando, and Angeles.
During a dialogue with over 2,000 residents in Barangay Sta. Cruz on Saturday night, February 3, Tapang laid out his vision for the town’s future, promising progress and renewed pride for Poracquenos.
“We will restore the old pride and glory of Porac,” Tapang declared, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to development if elected.
The event was attended by key figures, including businessman and philanthropist Rodolfo “Bong” Pineda, who pledged support for Tapang’s slate under the “Tapang Lusung” banner. Pineda vowed to help uplift the town and its residents should the group secure victory in the upcoming elections.
Porac recently made headlines after authorities raided what was described as Pampanga’s largest Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub outside Clark and Bamban town. The controversy led to the suspension of Mayor Jing Capil by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in November 2024.
Despite the town’s recent troubles, Tapang is rallying support for his cityhood push, aligning himself with political heavyweights, including Senator Lito Lapid, former president and Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, and Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda. Tapang is also backing Board Member Fritzie David-Dizon and the Nanay Partylist.
With local elections fast approaching, Tapang is banking on his vision of progress and political alliances to secure the mayorship and turn Porac into a full-fledged city.