11 bets running for Manila mayor

MANILA, Philippines — Aside from reelectionist Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, 10 other candidates are vying for the city’s mayoralty post in the May 2025 midterm elections.

Former Manila mayor Isko Moreno is seeking to reclaim the city’s top post.

Actor Ramon San Diego Bagatsing III and Mahra Lorraine Cator Tamondong of Kilusang Bagong Lipunan on Tuesday filed their certificates of candidacy (COC) for mayor.

Tutok to Win party-list Rep. Sam Verzosa, Michael Say of Ilocano Defenders as well as independent candidates Enrico Ferrer Ocampo, Ervin Stewart Koa Tan, Enrico Docot Reyes, Alvin Karingal and Jerry Garcia are also running for mayor.

Vice Mayor Yul Servo’s reelection bid will be challenged by Moreno’s running mate Chi Atienza, Bagatsing’s running mate Pablo Dario Ocampo, Solomon Say, Arvin Reyes, Niño Anthony Magno and Remedios Oyales.

Candidates for councilor reached 139.

Of the number, 26 are running for councilor in District 1; 13 in District 2; 18 in District 3; 31 each in Districts 4 and 5, and 20 in District 6.

Bagatsing is an independent mayoral candidate, based on the list provided by the Commission on Elections.

Earlier reports said that Bagatsing is co-chairman of the Manila chapter of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, chaired by President Marcos.

Meanwhile, the filing of COCs in the city has been peaceful and orderly, according to the Manila Police District.