By Rachel Magday
In a significant political development, former Governor Ruth R. Padilla has officially filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) for the congressional seat representing Nueva Vizcaya. Running under the Nacionalista Party, Padilla was accompanied by her eldest son, Carlos “Jojo” Padilla II, who expressed immense pride in his mother’s decision to continue the legacy of his late father, Governor Carlos M. Padilla.
“I am proud of my nanay for stepping up to continue the legacy of my tatay,” Jojo Padilla stated, emphasizing the family’s dedication to public service and their commitment to the province’s development. “Her decision is not just a fulfillment of my father’s wishes but also a response to the people’s call for continued progress and service.”
Ruth Padilla’s candidacy is further bolstered by the support of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, who stood by her side during the filing. Although Governor Gambito will file his own COC separately on October 5, their partnership under the coalition of the Nacionalista Party and the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas signifies a united front aimed at fostering growth and unity in the province.
“Our unity is a testament to our shared vision for Nueva Vizcaya,” Gambito remarked. “Together, we aim to build on the foundations laid by our predecessors and drive our province towards a brighter future.”
In her heartfelt message to the Novo Vizcayanos, Ruth Padilla affirmed her commitment to serving the province. “I am fully prepared to dedicate myself and my time to every Novo Vizcayano. Together, we will strive for a more prosperous, just, and brighter future for our province,” she declared.
Also joining Padilla in the electoral race is Patricio F. Dumlao Jr., a last-termer Board Member, who filed his COC for the vice gubernatorial position.
The slate for Board Member candidates includes Emerlene Jane Martinez Galanta, Leonard Clem Cadoy, Atty. Paul Ligmayo, Adonis Lejao, and Jun Padilla in the South District, and Eunice Galima Gambol, Atty. Primo Percival Marcos, Wilson Salas, Flodemonte Gerdan, and Theodore Omar Santos in the North District.
Additionally, candidates from the municipality of Bayombong joined Mrs. Padilla in filing their COCs, led by last-termer Municipal Councilor Precy Marcos, who is running for mayor, and reelectionist Vice Mayor Ramon “Dudung” Cabautan.
Their participation underscores a collective effort to bring about positive change and development at both the provincial and municipal levels, further strengthening the unified vision for Nueva Vizcaya’s future.
