Tacloban – Mayor Alfred Romualdez:Mayor Alfred Romualdez, the President’s first cousin, formally declared his intention to run for another term as head of this highly urbanized city on Tuesday, securing an unexpected endorsement from his previous detractor, Vice Mayor Edwin Chua.
According to Philippines News Agency, Romualdez, who is seeking reelection under the banner of the Nacionalista Party, was joined by members of the Chua family as he filed his certificate of candidacy at the city election office. This show of unity comes after a period of political rivalry that peaked during the last vice mayoralty election where Chua defeated Romualdez’s son, Raymund. Despite previous conflicts, Chua, who recently underwent heart bypass surgery and will not compete in the upcoming elections, expressed reconciliation and support for Romualdez.
“We used to be friends, and we just had a little misunderstanding. Now, we’re together again,” Chua stated, highlighting a renewed alliance that could influence the city’s po
litical landscape. Romualdez, reflecting on his tenure and the campaign ahead, shared his gratitude and future aspirations with the media. “It was a long journey, and we will continue that journey. I am very thankful for the people who gave me the opportunity to serve. There are many things I want to do in Tacloban,” he said.
This election cycle marks a significant shift in the city’s political dynamics, as no members of the Chua family are contesting the top posts, potentially easing past tensions. Romualdez, who belongs to a prominent political family that has controlled Tacloban for over two decades, faces competition from Renato Sipaco, a former local village chief.
Tacloban, which had a population of 251,881 as of 2020, remains an economic and administrative hub in the Eastern Visayas region.