Metro Manila's political campaigns begin this Friday

Metro Manila is gearing up for a busy political season starting this Friday. Voters will see candidates from local mayors to congressmen campaigning across 16 cities and one municipality. As the stakes get higher, some candidates are expected to win easily, while others face tough battles. Notable candidates include Quezon City's Mayor Joy Belmonte and Muntinlupa's Mayor Ruffy Biazon, both running unopposed. In Makati, Senator Nancy Binay is up against her brother-in-law Luis Campos. Las Piñas sees Vice Mayor April Aguilar challenging her first cousin, Carlo Aguilar. In Parañaque, former mayor Edwin Olivarez is being challenged by his sister-in-law, Aileen Claire Olivarez. Marikina's race features Congresswoman Maan Teodoro going against economist Congresswoman Stella Quimbo. Meanwhile, Malabon has a husband-and-wife matchup for mayor. Incumbent Jeannie Sandoval faces Congresswoman Jaye Lacson-Noel, both having their husbands running for congressional positions. Polling suggests that Caloocan's incumbent Mayor Dale Malapitan remains favored over former Senator Antonio Trillanes, though an upset is possible. San Juan’s election has incumbent Mayor Francis Zamora competing against former Vice Mayor Philip Cezar. Similarly, in Pasig, Mayor Vico Sotto leads in surveys but faces competition from Sara Discaya. Taguig’s race may be influenced by former Makati voters, while in Pateros, two candidates vie for the position with the incumbent mayor stepping down. With this intricate web of family ties and rivalries, voters should remain cautious in their choices. As the campaigns heat up, maintaining a spirit of peace and constructive dialogue is crucial. Candidates must uphold ethical standards and be accountable to the public. The upcoming 60 days will significantly shape the political landscape in Metro Manila, making every vote important as the future of these cities unfolds.