AS THE 2025 election season begins, political heavyweights in Mati City, Davao Oriental, have started filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs), setting the stage for what promises to be a closely watched and highly contested local race.
Two major factions are poised to face off, both led by prominent political figures in the region.
One camp is led by 1st District Representative Nelson Dayanghirang, accompanied by 2nd District Representative Cheeno Almario and his father, Mayor Almario. This group is expected to field candidates for various local and congressional posts. However, uncertainty remains regarding the Almarios’ next political move, particularly whether they will seek re-election or target other key offices, including the mayoralty.
On the other side is the group of incumbent Governor Niño Uy, allied with Louie Malanyaon, husband of the late Governor Corazon Malanyaon. This camp is also expected to present a strong lineup, though final decisions on specific candidates are still awaited.
In Mati City, Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat has officially filed her COC, seeking her third and final term in office. She is running with her nephew, Vice Mayor Enzo Rabat, who will once again serve as her running mate. Their bid is part of a broader political strategy to solidify the Rabat family’s stronghold in local governance.
The Rabats held a mass at the Dahican farm residence of Mayor Michelle before proceeding to file their COCs. Vice Mayor Enzo personally filed his COC before the Commission on Elections, while Mayor Michelle’s COC was filed by a proxy.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounds the 2nd Congressional District. While Board Member Shella Go has opted not to pursue her original plan to run for Congress, rumors suggest that Luisito Garcia Rabat, son of former Mati Mayor Carlo Rabat, is seriously considering a run for the seat.
However, the younger Rabat was a no-show on the first day of filing. The congressional slot for the second district remains the only position that the One Rabat Team has not yet filled.
Luisito’s potential candidacy could shake up the political landscape, especially as the Almarios’ plans remain unclear.
With prominent political families vying for key positions, the 2025 elections in Mati City are shaping up to be a high-stakes battle that could determine the future direction of local governance and development in the area.
As the filing of COCs continues, voters in Mati City are closely watching how political alliances will unfold and who will emerge as the frontrunners in the upcoming elections.
