The Quest for a Genuine Alternative

The Quest for a Genuine Alternative

January 30, 2025

Familiar names have once again emerged in the current election season—some as returning candidates seeking a political comeback, others as newcomers leveraging the legacy of their family names, and a few simply testing the waters of politics for the first time. Given this landscape, it comes as no surprise that familiar-sounding names continue to dominate the scene.

This scenario raises questions about the sincerity and motives of these candidates. Voters are left wondering: Are there no other qualified leaders? Why are they making a comeback? Why not complete their full terms before seeking higher office? Faced with these concerns, the electorate is confronted with a critical choice—either allow entrenched political figures to maintain their grip on power or break the cycle by electing a genuine alternative.

Traditional politics remains a system dominated by entrenched dynasties, patronage, and alliances built on personal favors and dole outs rather than policy-driven leadership. As a result, the challenge for voters is not just choosing a candidate but deciding the future of governance itself.

This is precisely why election seasons are often dominated by familiar names, empty promises, and transactional politics—where personal political survival takes precedence over genuine public service. This cycle inevitably leads to inefficiency, corruption, and policies designed to serve political interests rather than the greater good.

In Baguio, the growing influence of political dynasties threatens to entrench exclusivity in governance, stifling fresh leadership and obstructing much-needed reforms. If left unchecked, this trend could further erode democratic ideals and limit opportunities for new, competent leaders to emerge.

A veteran politician, a longtime fixture in Baguio’s political landscape, appears unwilling to relinquish the power and privileges he once held so dearly. Clinging to the remnants of his former influence, he struggles to step aside, despite the changing tides of leadership. However, the time has come for a new generation—one driven not by entitlement, but by a true passion for public service. The people deserve a leader who serves with integrity, vision, and purpose, rather than one who clings to power for the sake of nostalgia.

Infrastructure projects are often plagued by delays or substandard workmanship, largely due to kickbacks and favoritism. These corrupt practices not only waste public funds but also compromise the quality of services, ultimately failing to meet the needs of the people.

Given these realities, it is clear that the time has come to break away from this flawed system. The electorate must choose leaders who embody vision, passion, and a genuine dedication to public service—leaders who prioritize progress over personal gain and governance over political survival.

With the deeply rooted Igorot vote set to be divided among three contenders Domogan, Aliping and Cosalan, in the upcoming congressional race, and with the electorate still resistant to the idea of a husband and wife attempting to hold on to power exclusively running the city’s affairs, the need for a strong and genuine alternative has never been more evident. The call to break free from traditional politics  and prevent the rise of political dynasties is now louder than ever.

In this crucial moment, one candidate stands out as the answer to our quest for a genuine alternative: Gladys Vergara—a leader poised to bring fresh, principled leadership and a commitment to real change.

Among the top three contenders, it is undeniably clear that Gladys Vergara stands out as the strongest and most credible alternative—the answer to the electorate’s growing demand for genuine, transformative leadership. In a political landscape long dominated by the same familiar figures, she represents a refreshing departure from traditional power plays and entrenched interests.

What sets her apart is not just experience and vision, but an unwavering commitment to progress, good governance, and the people she serves. While others cling to the past, driven by personal ambition and nostalgia for lost power, Gladys embodies the future—one built on transparency, inclusivity, and a true passion for public service.

As voters stand at the crossroads of continuity or change, the choice is no longer clouded by uncertainty. The answer is as clear as the blue sky.