We’re once again seeing familiar names dominating the political landscape as we approach the 2025 midterm elections. Many of these names revolve around families that have been in power for years.
From where we sit, we see an intricate shifting of alliances among personalities in politics, whose primary goal is to emerge victorious in the polls. In its wake are the remnants of damaged partnerships, and, in some cases, even personal friendships.
These shifting alliances can be confusing for voters, who now face the difficult task of choosing between candidates they once saw united, sharing the same vision and principles for their community.
Political dynasties make it difficult for voters to exercise genuine choice, as they often limit competition, perpetuate power within a few families, and create an environment where fresh ideas and meaningful change struggle to emerge.
Take Batangas, for instance: Vilma Santos-Recto, a well-known figure in politics, has decided to run for governor again. What’s noteworthy is that her two sons, Luis Philippe “Lucky” Manzano and Ryan Recto, are joining her in the race. Lucky is running as her vice governor, while Ryan is vying for a congressional seat to represent the 6th District of Batangas. They’re all running under the banner of “One Batangas,” signaling that the Santos-Recto family is solidifying its influence over Batangas politics.
It’s multiple levels of authority: the governorship, the vice governorship, and a congressional seat.
In Puerto Princesa City and Palawan, we see a somewhat similar pattern. Governor Victorino Dennis Socrates is running for re-election, while his sister Nancy Socrates is aiming to become the mayor of Puerto Princesa. Amy Alvarez, the mayor of San Vicente and a member of the influential Alvarez family, is challenging Socrates for the gubernatorial post. Amy’s father, Congressman Jose Alvarez, is also running for re-election, and her cousin, Franz Josef “Chicoy” Alvarez, is making a comeback in the 1st District of Palawan.
Former congressman Frederick “Erick” Abueg is also making a comeback as Gov. Socrates’ running mate, and his sister Cyrille “Beng” Zaldivar is running against Rep. Alvarez in the second district.
These political families have been around for years, but what makes this election cycle even more confusing are the alliances that have shifted recently. For example, Governor Socrates used to be part of the same political party as the Alvarez family, but he left the party last July, feeling pushed out. Now, Socrates is backing Elroy John “Clink” Hagedorn for the 3rd District’s congressional seat, while his sister Nancy supports a different candidate, former congressman Gil Acosta, who is aligned with the Alvarezes.
This kind of split within families creates confusion, as voters struggle to make sense of politicians’ shifting loyalties.
For the typical voter, this situation is difficult to understand and follow. Political parties, family names, and alliances are intended to assist people in determining who to vote for. But when families separate and loyalties fluctuate, it’s difficult to determine what each politician truly stands for.
In the end, this confusion will lead to uncertainty for voters. If people from the same family are supporting different candidates or switching political parties, it becomes unclear what their true priorities are. Will they focus on serving the people, or are they more interested in holding onto power within their family?
As voters, we deserve leaders who focus on public service, not family feuds or political games. But in places where political dynasties control the scene, this can be hard to achieve.
Voters in Palawan will need to carefully consider who will truly work for the good of the people.
