Luis Manzano to Run for Vice Governor of Batangas
LUIS MANZANO – The son of Vilma Santos and actor Edu Manzano is running for vice governor of Batangas. This marks his first step into politics, although there has already been speculation about his interest due to his frequent appearances at political events in the province.
His mother, Vilma Santos, known as the “Star for All Seasons” and a long-time actress and politician, is making a comeback after a three-year break. She aims to regain her former position as governor of Batangas, a role she held for three consecutive terms from 2007 to 2016. Vilma chose not to run for any government position in 2022 after finishing her second term as a representative for Batangas’ 6th district.
Ryan Christian Recto, the son of Vilma and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, is also entering politics. He is running for congressman in Batangas’ 6th district, a seat previously held by his mother.
The filing of their candidacies confirms earlier rumors that Luis and Ryan would also pursue political careers. The three were joined by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and Jessy Mendiola, Luis’s wife, during the filing process at the Batangas Provincial Capitol.
Meanwhile, several celebrities are competing for various elective positions in the upcoming 2025 Philippine elections. Action star Philip Salvador is targeting a seat in the Senate, while Lucy Torres Gomez is running for re-election as the Mayor of Ormoc City. She is joined by her husband, Richard Gomez, who is also seeking re-election as the 4th District Representative of Leyte.
Deo “Diwata” Balbuena is entering the race as a nominee for the Vendors Party-list, and Marco Gumabao is campaigning for the position of Representative for the 4th District of Camarines Sur. Social media influencer Rosmar Tan is aiming for a Councilor position in Manila’s 1st District, and Ion Perez is running for Councilor in Concepcion, Tarlac.
Arjo Atayde is looking to retain his position as the 1st District Representative of Quezon City. Additionally, Lito Lapid and Tito Sotto are both seeking re-election to the Senate.