Rama seeks comeback, vows to fast-track stalled projects

With hindsight, Rama said he chose to bury the odds he faced, adding that in the political arena, there will always be “surprises” and that one cannot be “onion-skinned.”

- ANDREW MATTHEW ORTOÑO

With just over two weeks until election day, Rama said they have already strengthened their campaign sorties to reinforce support at the barangay level. According to him, surveys show that their party is in good standing and that they are “winning.”

Rama won as city mayor in the 2022 elections, making him a reelectionist for this year’s polls despite being dismissed from government service on October 3, 2025. Given this situation, Rama said he was not surprised to see barangay-level officials shifting their support to other candidates.

“If I was not suspended, I don’t think it will happen,” said Rama.

He added that February surveys showed 70 percent of votes were assured for him, expressing confidence in the upcoming elections.

He also said he is keeping track of the barangay captains—out of the 80 in Cebu City—who have shifted their support to other candidates.

He noted, however, that this is the most challenging election he has faced, while recalling that the Rama name has been present in politics since 1916. He emphasized that he is already accustomed to party changes, treachery, and the presence of political butterflies.

Today, Rama said he has already overcome the most difficult challenges. While his dismissal from service is among the obstacles he has faced in this election, he said there is no aspect of his leadership that he would change.

“Work hard, hope for the best, expect for the worst, let God take care of the rest,” said Rama.

The former mayor has been in the political arena for a long time, beginning as a city councilor and eventually serving in the highest post in local government for multiple terms.