BAGUIO CITY – Baguio Tourism Council Chair Gladys Vergara, formally filed her candidacy for Baguio City’s lone congressional seat ,on October 7.

Gladys is the eldest daughter and political successor of retired Congressman Bernie Vergara.

Along with her is Glenn Gaerlan,who filed for City Councilor.

Following weeks of reflection, prayer, and consultation with her community, Gladys decided to pursue the seat once held by her father, who served with distinction for 12 years starting in 1992.

She expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she received and the role it played in her decision to run for office.

“After much thought and prayer, I made the decision to run for Congress, offering my track record of service and leadership to the people of Baguio,” Gladys shared.

She highlighted the strong encouragement from her community during her barangay visits as a significant factor in her decision to seek public office.

Aside from being a successful entrepreneur, Gladys has served as the Chair BTC since 2019, a role in which she has been instrumental in revitalizing the city’s tourism economy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing tourism as a primary economic driver for Baguio City.

Gladys affirmed her readiness to represent the city in Congress, saying, “My father’s legacy of exceptional public service will continue to guide me as I work to represent the interests of our people.”

Throughout her years of service, Gladys has held various leadership roles, starting as Sangguniang Kabataan Chair of Upper Quirino-Magsaysay (QM) Barangay, later becoming the head of the city’s SK Federation and a regional leader for Ilocos and the Cordillera. She then became a city councilor and was elevated to Vice Mayor of Baguio City by virtue of succession.

In addition to her public service, Gladys has earned respect in Baguio’s business community as a successful entrepreneur andan advocate for renewable energy projects and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, contributing to a more sustainable future.

“I offer my gifts and experience in service to our community, praying that I may represent our people with competence, compassion, and integrity,” she said.