Ex-VP Leni Robredo files COC for Naga City mayor

Former Vice President Leni Robredo on Saturday filed her certificate of candidacy (COC) for Naga City mayor in Eleksyon 2025.

Robredo was accompanied by her daughters, Aika and Jillian, during her filing of COC at the local Commission on Elections office in Naga City.

Her election lawyer Romulo Macalintal, supporters, and those who will run under her ticket were also seen at the local Comelec office.

In an interview, Robredo disclosed that she decided to run for Naga City's top position as early as June or July.

This, as she said that she never thought of gunning for a senate seat. 

"Hindi ko naman ito sinabi na even before kasi around June or July this year, nagdecide na talaga ako to run for city mayor dito sa Naga. Nasubukan ko na mag-legislative, nasubukan ko na 'yung executive, sigurado ako na-- una, mas mahusay ako sa executive position. Pangalawa, talagang passion ko 'yung community work na ito 'yung buod ng pagiging mayor," she said.

(I never mentioned anything about a Senate run because around June or July this year, I finally decided to run for city mayor here in Naga. I've tried legislative work, I've tried the executive branch, and I'm sure that-- first, I'm better suited for an executive position. Second, community work is truly my passion, which is the essence of being a mayor.)

"Sa Senado, iba 'yung skills set na kailangan and sa akin talaga, sigurado ako kasi naging congresswoman na din ako before. Sigurado ako na mas magiging mahusay ako, mas passionate ako about executive work sa local government," she added.

(There is a different skills set that is needed in the Senate. I've been a congresswoman before. So I am sure that I'll serve better and I'm more passionate about the executive work in local government.)

Robredo also said that she is not running for Naga City mayor in preparation for the 2028 national and local elections.

"Tingin ko magiging unfair para sa city kung gagamitin ko lang 'yung pag mayor bilang jump-off point. Tingin ko hindi ako magiging effective mayor kung iniisip ko kaagad 'yung 2028 kasi baka lahat PR na lang ang gawin ko," she said.

(I think it would be unfair for the city if I only use my mayorship as a stepping stone. I think I won't be an effective mayor if I start thinking about 2028 right away, as it might be just superficial achievements.)

"If ever na magkaroon ulit ng opportunity in the future, kailangan naka-base 'yon sa performance ko as mayor. Hindi dahil pinagplanuhan kong kumandidato ulit sa nasyonal," she added.

(If I ever have another opportunity in the future, it will have to be based on my performance as mayor, not because I've planned to run again in a national election.)

Should she win as the mayor, Robredo said she will address the evolving problems and issues of Naga City.

Now that the economic progress in the city has already been attained, Robredo said her leadership will seek an "inclusive" development where the economic development will "redound to the benefit of the least" in Naga City.

The economic progress that she is seeking will not compromise the environment, the social issues, and the quality of life, Robredo said.

Robredo's running-mate outgoing Camarines Sur Representative Gabby Bordado also filed his COC for vice mayor.

Bordado also served as vice mayor during the term of Robredo's husband, the late Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, as Naga City mayor.

The following will run for city council under the Robredo-Bordado ticket:

• Outgoing City Administrator Elmer Baldemoro
• Incumbent Councilor Jess Albeus
• Incumbent Councilor Gayle Abonal-Gomez
• Outgoing City Budget Officer Frank Mendoza
• Atty. Areiz Macaraig
• Former City Health Officer Dr. Butch Borja
• Former Councilor Miles Raquid-Arroyo
• Incumbent Councilor Omar Buenafe
• Incumbent Councilor Jose Perez
• Incumbent Councilor Oying Rosales

A post on Robredo's official Facebook page said the lineup is the result of extensive consultations conducted by Robredo, who invited Naga's residents, organizations, and sectors to field and vet aspiring candidates. 

Over 2,000 Naga residents participated in this process.

Supporters and those who will run under her ticket were also seen at the local Comelec office.

—VAL, GMA Integrated News