MABALACAT, Philippines — Businessman Rodolfo “Tatay Bong” Pineda made a strong appeal to voters in Mabalacat to deliver a clean sweep for the local slate led by Geld Aquino and Jun Castro. The endorsement came during Pineda’s fourth visit to the city’s campaign trail, this time at a gathering in Barangay Dau organized by former mayor Marino “Boking” Morales and Atty. Manolo Feliciano, founder of Jose Feliciano College.
Pineda, an influential figure in Pampanga politics, encouraged residents to vote 12-0 for the Bagong Henerasyon lineup. “It’s possible for the Aquino-Castro team to win across the board. It happened in 2021 — history might repeat itself,” a political observer noted at the event.
Support for Aquino and Castro appears to be rising as rival candidate Crisostomo Garbo’s standing reportedly declines. “As Garbo’s chances fall, more and more people are rallying behind Aquino and Castro,” said Jesusa Santos, a Dau resident who attended the campaign event.
According to a recent study conducted during the campaign period, about 85 percent of voters in the area have already decided who they will vote for. Analysts believe such high voter certainty this early may significantly impact final results.
The gathering reflected a broader consolidation of political support, with local power brokers like Morales and Pineda actively backing the Aquino-Castro tandem. With election day drawing closer, their influence may prove decisive in shaping the city’s political future.