A Legacy of Leadership vs. the Politics of Desperation

A certain female reporter, infamous for her history of fake news and reckless commentary, recently took to social media to question congressional candidate Gladys Vergara’s contributions to Baguio. Her snide remark—something along the lines of “Anong significant ang nagawa niya sa Baguio?”—was clearly meant to cast doubt on Vergara’s credentials. But let’s cut through the noise: this isn’t journalism, it’s just another desperate hit job.

Instead of resorting to veiled jabs and cheap smear tactics, perhaps this so-called journalist should spend her energy promoting her preferred candidate on merit—assuming, of course, there’s anything worth promoting. Because if the best strategy their camp can muster is attacking Vergara, it only proves one thing: they are clinging to outdated tactics and resorting to dirty campaigning because their time in politics is fading.

Now, let’s set the record straight. Vergara’s impact on Baguio isn’t up for debate—it’s a fact. As chair of the Baguio Tourism Council, she has been a driving force in elevating the city’s tourism sector, spearheading policies that strengthened industry collaborations, created jobs, and put Baguio on the national and international map. These aren’t just empty claims; they’re measurable, visible improvements that have benefited countless residents. If that’s not significant, then what is?

But Vergara’s contributions to Baguio started long before her work in tourism. In 1985, she was one of the best youth leaders in the country, serving as the head of the National KB Federation. As a youth leader, she actively promoted leadership training programs to equip the next generation of leaders in Baguio. Her initiatives empowered young people to engage in governance, civic duties, and policy-making, laying the foundation for the city's future leadership. Her dedication to public service was further solidified when she was elected as the number two councilor in the city. Later on, she was elevated and appointed as the youngest vice mayor of Baguio, proving her capability and dedication at an early age.

Beyond tourism, Vergara has also been a staunch advocate for renewable energy. She represented the Philippines at numerous international summits and conferences on renewable energy, championing sustainable solutions on the global stage. As early as 2016, she was already pushing for the use of solar energy in Baguio, long before it became a mainstream initiative. Her continued efforts in promoting renewable energy demonstrate her foresight and commitment to sustainable development.

This is precisely why Baguio needs Vergara in Congress. Her leadership is essential in reviving and continuing the projects her father, former Mayor and Congressman Engr. Vergara, started—projects that have been neglected and mishandled by those who came after him.

Baguio deserves a leader with a proven track record, a clear vision, and the ability to deliver—not just another politician riding on empty rhetoric.

But let’s be real. Titang chismosa ng Bayan's attacks aren’t just failing; they’re backfiring. Instead of undermining Vergara, all she’s done is expose the desperation within their camp. This isn’t a strategic political move; it’s a full-blown panic reaction. When a candidate and their allies resort to character assassination instead of presenting real platforms, it only signals one thing: fear. Fear of losing. Fear of going head-to-head with a competent leader. Fear of being exposed for having no concrete accomplishments to stand on.

And this smear campaign doesn’t stop with Vergara. Sol Go, another congressional hopeful, has also been targeted, with Tita dismissing her candidacy as a mere power grab and painting her as unqualified simply because she hasn’t held prior elective office. Here’s a thought—maybe the people are tired of career politicians who have held every title but delivered nothing. Maybe fresh leadership is exactly what Baguio needs.

Popo Cosalan wasn’t spared either by Tita. Instead of engaging him in a substantive policy debate, Tita tried to discredit his capability to address legislative priorities like the City Charter Bill, Magna Carta Bill, and infrastructure projects. Because why discuss real issues when you can just plant doubt and hope people buy it?

Then there’s Vergara again, mocked for her tourism contributions with an absurd oversimplification: reducing her role to mere public safety announcements. It’s a laughable attempt to discredit years of actual work that strengthened Baguio’s economy and tourism sector.

Even Mayor Benjie Magalong—a man with an extensive background in governance and law enforcement—was dragged into this circus, Tita accused Magalong of exploiting the SAF44 tragedy for political mileage. Instead of challenging his governance on legitimate grounds, they opted for a low blow, proving yet again that their playbook is all smear, no substance.

Marie Rose Fongwan-Kepes of Benguet was similarly targeted, by Tita blaming her for the rise in dengue cases in Benguet, conveniently ignoring the broader systemic challenges in public health. If there’s a failure in health management, let’s talk policies and solutions—not cherry-picked attacks designed to discredit an entire career.

At the end of the day, this is what Baguio is up against: a political landscape where cheap shots take precedence over real leadership. But here’s the good news—Baguio voters aren’t fools. The overwhelming support for Vergara and other credible candidates proves that the people see through these desperate smear tactics. They want leaders who bring results, not noise.

They want governance based on action, not baseless accusations.

So, to those hell-bent on running their campaigns through mudslinging: maybe it’s time to try something new—like, say, actual governance. Because if this is all you’ve got, then you’ve already lost.

There is also a legal case to be made against someone pretending to be a media outfit to cyberbully political opponents. This kind of activity can potentially violate several laws in the Philippines, including:

Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (RA 10175)

Cyber libel – defamatory statements posted online with malicious intent.

Identity theft – pretending to be someone else or an organization (like a legitimate media outlet) to deceive.

Unlawful use of a computer system – includes using platforms to harm or defame others.

If a person uses a fake media platform to post malicious content targeting political opponents, this can be considered cyber libel.

Revised Penal Code (as amended)

Libel (Article 353) – public and malicious imputation of a crime, vice, or defect tending to dishonor someone, especially if it is published or broadcast.

Fair Election Act (RA 9006)

During election periods, this law regulates political propaganda. If a fake media outfit is used to disseminate false or malicious information about a candidate or political figure, especially to influence public perception during the election season, it can be reported to the COMELEC for possible violation.

While there’s no specific anti-fake news law in the Philippines (as of now), certain acts can still be penalized under existing laws like RA 10175 if harm or damage can be proven.

Here are the highlights of Gladys Vergara’s achievements