Ruiz goes up against Cebu political clans

CEBU CITY — Yogi Ruiz, a former commissioner of the Bureau of Customs (BoC), has officially filed his certificate of candidacy for Cebu City's mayoral post on Monday, positioning himself as a «candidate for change.»

Ruiz, running for public office for the first time, is challenging the hold of political dynasties, which he claims have hindered the city's development.

Ruiz criticized the continuous election of the same political families in Cebu City, suggesting that this has led to recurring issues being ignored.

NEW FACE Former commissioner of the Bureau of Customs Yogi Ruiz files his certificate of candidacy on Oct. 7, 2024. PHOTO BY KAISER JAN FUENTES

«They have been selecting the same kind of people, the same names, the same set of politicians — magpuli-puli og kolor pero mao rang nawnga (they just switch party colors, but the faces are the same),» Ruiz told The Manila Times shortly after filing his candidacy.

Although new to politics, Ruiz said his extensive public service experience, including his time at the Bureau of Customs, will be his weapon.

He claimed that BoC reached record-breaking revenue collections totaling P800 billion during his term.

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He also served as regional director for the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Central Visayas.

Despite his nonpolitical background, Ruiz believes his experience makes him well-equipped to serve as mayor of Cebu City.

Citing examples from other urban centers, Ruiz pointed out that cities like Manila and Pasig made strides after electing new leaders.

«When Manila elected a new mayor, Manila progressed. When Pasig City elected a new mayor, Pasig City progressed,» Ruiz said, urging Cebu voters to consider a fresh alternative in leadership.

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Ruiz's entry into the mayoral race adds to the growing list of candidates, many of whom come from well-established political clans.

Among them is acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, a member of the influential Garcia family that includes Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and 3rd District Rep. Pablo John Garcia.

Reelectionist Michael Rama, currently facing a dismissal order from the Office of the Ombudsman, is another key figure in the mayoral race.

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