Some political clans dominate 2025 polls

CEBU, Philippines — Several political families emerged victorious in the recently concluded 2025 midterm elections, further cementing their influence in Cebu's political landscape. Among the clans that dominated the polls were the Lagons, Ouanos, Salimbangons, Frascos, Alegados, Gullases, and Diamantes.

Ako Bisaya Partylist Rep. Sonny Lagon secured another term, while his wife, Sixth District Rep. Daphne Lagon, was also reelected. Their twin sons, Lorenz and Larenz, clinched board member seats for the sixth and third districts, respectively. Meanwhile, their eldest son, Dason Patric, won a seat in the municipal council of Cordova.

The Ouano family in Mandaue City also celebrated a sweeping victory. Incumbent Lone District Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon retained her seat. Her brother, Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano, was elected as Mandaue City's new mayor, while another sibling, Alfie, secured a board member post for the sixth district. Alfie’s son, Miko, won as councilor in Consolacion, and their cousin, Councilor Anjong Icalina-Ouano, was reelected.

In Consolacion, the mother-and-son tandem of Mayor Teresa Alegado and former mayor Joannes Alegado also triumphed. Mayor Teresa was reelected, while Joannes returned to power as vice mayor.

In the fourth district, Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura unseated incumbent Rep. Janice Salimbangon in the congressional race. Shimura’s wife, Kerrie, was reelected as a provincial board member. Despite her defeat, Salimbangon’s family still had victories to celebrate. Her son, Benhur II, won a council seat in Tabogon, while his stepson, Mayor Francis Salimbangon, was reelected in the same town. Additionally, her brother-in-law, Edwin Salimbangon, won the mayoralty race in Medellin.

In the fifth district, Rep. Duke Frasco secured another term, and his sister, Margo Frasco, was elected vice mayor of Liloan. Their cousin, Mayor Aljew Frasco, also earned a fresh mandate.

Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas and his wife, First District Rep. Rhea Gullas, ran unopposed and retained their positions.

In Tuburan, the Diamante family continued its political reign. Christian Diamante, son of incumbent Mayor Aljun Diamante, won the mayoralty. His uncles, Danny and Fredo Diamante, won as vice mayor and councilor, respectively. — (FREEMAN)