Gatchalian seeks second term as Valenzuela mayor

MANILA, Philippines — Valenzuela Mayor Weslie Gatchalian yesterday filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for reelection.

Marlon Alejandrino will run for vice mayor.

Gatchalian's brother, Kenneth, is vying for a congressional seat in the 1st District of Valenzuela.

His younger brother, Rex Gatchalian, vacated the House seat in 2023 after he was appointed secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development by President Marcos.

No other candidate has filed for the mayoral seat in Valenzuela two days before the deadline of COC filing, according to the city’s public information office.

Verzosa vs Lacuna

In Manila, businessman Sam Verzosa filed his candidacy as the city's chief executive, challenging Mayor Honey Lacuna. 

“Our top priority is health. Free hospitalization and free medication for our citizens,” he said.

Verzosa pledged a monthly allowance of P2,000 for senior citizens as well as job opportunities and sustainable livelihood programs for residents.

Free medical services, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, ECGs and medicines, are offered by “SV Mobile Clinics,” one of his current initiatives.

“We have launched free business franchises to help lift people out of poverty,” Verzosa said.

Lacuna earlier filed her candidacy for reelection. Her predecessor, Isko Moreno, will reportedly run against Lacuna.