Porac mayoral candidates cast early votes
PORAC, Pampanga — Three mayoral candidates in Porac cast their votes early Monday, signaling the start of a closely watched election. Suspended Mayor Jaime “Jing” Capil, former Vice Mayor Atty. Charlie Santos, and Michael “Mike” Tapang voted in separate precincts as over 80,000 registered voters prepared to decide the town’s next leader.
Porac, the largest municipality in Pampanga, has become a political hotspot this election season. The mayoral race draws increased attention due to past controversies and the involvement of influential political figures. This adds pressure on voters as they weigh their options.
Porac mayoral candidates face tough contest
Incumbent Mayor Capil seeks a third consecutive term despite his suspension. His leadership faced criticism after a national crackdown on illegal POGO operations, with the Lucky South 99 case — raided earlier this year — at the heart of the controversy. This has stirred public debate about accountability and governance in Porac.
Meanwhile, Michael “Mike” Tapang stands as a strong challenger. His campaign enjoys support from a coalition of powerful political figures, including Rodolfo “Bong” Pineda and his influential clan. Their backing makes Tapang a formidable contender in this election.
Running independently, Atty. Charlie Santos hopes to offer a fresh alternative. Having served as vice mayor from 2019 to 2022, Santos now positions himself as a “reformist” candidate, opposing traditional political alliances. His campaign appeals to voters seeking change.
The significance of Porac mayoral candidates
The early votes of the three Porac mayoral candidates mark the beginning of a highly contested election. Residents here aren’t just choosing a mayor; they are deciding the future path of their community. Many are calling for greater transparency, reform, and stronger leadership to guide Porac forward.
As the day progresses, all eyes remain on this election hotspot. The outcome will reflect the public’s desire for accountability amid ongoing political challenges.