"Though they are newcomers in politics, they are not new in the affairs of state," Malonzo said of his party mates.
Among the new faces who joined Malonzo’s team, dubbed as the "Champion Team," are activist Nathaniel Santiago of the militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan or Bayan, Police Inspector Benny Go, Mary Grace Mercado, representing the city’s non-government organization, businessmen Teben Cunanan, Mel Mabagos, barangay leaders Obet Cruz and William Villegas.
The reelectionists were composed of councilors Dick Gonzales, actor Dennis Padilla, Eduardo Rosca, Susan Punzalan and Isaac Domingo.
Basketball referee-turned-councilor Tito Varela is seeking the vice mayoralty post while Edgar Erice, the city council majority leader, is running for the city’s second district’s congressional post.
Rep. Enrico Echiverri is out to retain his congressional seat in the first district.
Malonzo expressed confidence that his team will sweep all the political posts in the city due to his administration’s excellent performance.
As expected, a showdown is looming between Malonzo and his bitter political rival Rep. Luis "Baby" Asistio.
Meanwhile, in Malabon, a prominent businesswoman promises to bring a good fight against Mayor Amado "Boy" Vicencio.
Flerida "Flery" Marcelo, who is running under the People Power Coalition (PPC), is hopeful that her vast experience in business management and administration would give her an advantage once elected as mayor.
Carrying with her a campaign slogan "Ahon Malabon," Marcelo promised that if given a chance to serve her constituents, she will literally lift up Malabon not only from the flood waters but also the lives of its residents by giving them livelihood and employment. – Pete Laude