Mike stands by nephew Edu despite political differences

CEBU, Philippines — Former mayor Michael Rama, founder of Partido Barug-BagOng Sugbo-Team Rama, reaffirmed his unwavering support for his nephew, Cebu City South District Rep. Edu Rama, despite their political differences.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Rama emphasized that family ties remain unbreakable, even when political views do not always align. He initially planned to hold a press conference with Cong. Edu and his eldest son, Mikel, who is running for councilor in the south district, but opted to speak on their behalf instead.

“Kaming mga Rama—ako, Edu, Mikel—in behalf namong tulo, we are one,” the former mayor said.

He underscored the importance of family, stating that political disputes are temporary, but familial bonds endure.

“We are one, of course, because politics will pass, friendship should last, family… bloodline is forever… eternal and everything. Therefore, ang-ang mag akong i-disown si Edu. Dili na mahimo… maypa ako na lay mu-resign because I cannot… With the bloodline of Don Vicente Rama, I have to stand by whoever is within that bloodline,” he said.

Rama clarified that he does not act as Cong. Edu’s spokesperson, but assured that if any mistakes were made, he would take responsibility.

“If mistakes are committed, I will apologize,” he said, referencing the congressman’s decision to sign the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. Despite this, Rama maintained that Edu knows what course of action to take.

“He knows already what to do,” Rama said, as the congressman is expected to continue his association with Tingog Partylist, led by Rep. Yedda Romualdez, wife of House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

With the local campaign period set to begin later this month, Rama instructed his supporters to modify printed campaign materials, ensuring that Partido Barug-BagOng Sugbo-Team Rama is no longer linked to Tingog Partylist, though the same does not apply to Cong. Edu.

“Kanang sa mga t-shirts… papasa na lang na diha… ayaw ang name ni Edu, but the name of the partylist,” he said.

Despite the political rift, Rama remains aligned with former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte. In fact, Sara continues to back Rama’s party despite Edu’s signing of the impeachment complaint.

Sara has been visiting barangays to express gratitude to supporters while endorsing the former mayor, Vice Mayor Dondon Hontiveros, and the rest of their lineup—though notably omitting any mention of Cong. Edu.

Reflecting on the complexities of political alliances, Rama acknowledged, “Politics can create strange bedfellows,” quoting American writer Charles Dudley Warner. (CEBU NEWS)