Rama refuses to concede

CEBU, Philippines — Former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama refuses to concede defeat, even after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) city board of canvassers proclaimed Nestor Archival as the newly elected mayor in the recent midterm elections.

Rama questioned the credibility of the election results, citing a personal encounter with a glitch in the automated counting machine (ACM). According to him, it took over an hour to officially cast his vote due to the machine malfunctioning.

He expressed concern over the technical issues, suggesting they may have affected the overall outcome of the elections.

“As such, I am directing our legal team to fathom and do all necessary actions to reconcile the actual situation and the recent election result,” Rama said, emphasizing that he would not be forced to concede.

Rama also mentioned plans to coordinate with their national party, PDP–Laban, to further investigate the matter.

Despite his refusal to concede, Rama extended congratulations to fellow Partido BARUG members who secured victories—reelected South District Congressman Edu Rama and Councilors Philipp Zafra, Francis Esparis, Mikel Rama, and Harry Eran.

However, he expressed disappointment over the loss of other party members who failed to win. He highlighted the party’s grassroots campaign efforts, recounting how candidates would start their days at 4 a.m. with handshaking activities, sitio-level meetings, and nightly mini rallies.

Rama stressed that the results "seem not reflective of the local political scenario in Cebu City.”

Media coverage also confirmed the ACM glitch that delayed Rama’s voting process.

Garcia accepts defeat, prepares for transition

Meanwhile, incumbent Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia conceded to Archival but admitted the outcome was unexpected.

In an interview, Garcia revealed that he had anticipated a win, especially after leading in online surveys and believing that his brief tenure as mayor had strengthened his chances.

“Any candidate who loses in an election will be disappointed,” he said, adding that the loss mirrored his current emotional state. Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude to his supporters who campaigned on his behalf.

Garcia acknowledged the election results as a reflection of the people’s will. He also vowed to support Archival’s administration, provided it aligns with the goal of improving Cebu City.

In preparation for the transition, Garcia instructed Cebu City Administrator Lawyer Kristine Batucan to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.

“I have to finish what I have to finish until June 30,” said Garcia, noting that his term officially ends next month.

Garcia also plans to take a family trip, saying the election results offer him the opportunity to spend more time with loved ones. He shared that the outcome allows him to refocus on his health and hinted at returning to his legal profession.

Furthermore, he intends to make arrangements for city hall employees under his administration, ensuring continuity in operations. “It will be business as usual,” he added.

Looking ahead, Garcia expressed enthusiasm about returning to corporate law, a field he had set aside when he entered public service. — (FREEMAN)