For Mandaue Mayor amid political speculation Digong backs Jonas

CEBU, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has endorsed dismissed Mandaue City mayor Jonas Cortes in his bid for re-election in the 2025 midterm elections, underscoring Cortes  leadership and dedication to public service.

This after speculation started on Cortes  political affiliation ahead of the May 2025 polls when he was seen at PDP-Laban s proclamation rally, on February 13, 2025, at Club Filipino in San Juan, Manila.

Duterte currently serves as chairman of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban).

However, Cortes resigned from the party on May 29, 2024, just a day after Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia also announced her departure.

Cortes  decision was reportedly driven by his commitment to maintaining the unity established under Garcia and ensuring Mandaue remains aligned with One Cebu, the province s dominant local political party led by the governor.

Despite his exit from PDP-Laban, Cortes expressed gratitude for Duterte s support, emphasizing that true leadership transcends party lines.

 Ang pagtuboy ni Presidente Rodrigo Duterte kanako nagpakita nga ang matuod nga panaghiusa mas kusgan pa kaysa politika. Sukad pa sa sinugdanan, ako nagatuo nga ang liderato dili sukod sa kolor sa partido, kundi sa tinuod ug matinud-anong pag-alagad sa katawhan,  said Cortes.

As a current member of One Cebu, led by Governor Garcia, Cortes reiterated his focus on collaboration and inclusive governance, ensuring that his mission remains centered on public service.

 Dili ang partido o kolor maoy mo diktar sa atong tumong ug misyon kundi ang matuod nga panerbisyo ug ang pagpalambo sa kinabuhi sa matag Mandauehanon ug Pilipino,  he added.

The PDP-Laban Proclamation Rally, primarily organized to endorse Duterte s senatorial lineup, also gathered local candidates, including Cortes and his slate, Team Mandaue. Other Cebu politicians, such as former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama and former Lapu-Lapu City mayor Paz Radaza, were also present with their respective parties.

Following Duterte s endorsement, Atty. Regal Oliva, Team Mandaue s congressional bet and former city treasurer, also emphasized the essence of leadership integrity, conviction, and unwavering commitment to public service.

 The endorsement of Former President Rodrigo Duterte affirms a shared vision one that puts Mandaue and the nation first, with a steadfast resolve to do what is right. Padayon ta sa tinuod nga panerbisyo!  said Oliva.

Meanwhile, Governor Garcia clarified that as far as One Cebu is concerned, Cortes remains the official nominee of their party for the Mandaue mayoral race in the upcoming elections.

One Cebu has assured their support to the current administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Cortes  attendance at the PDP-Laban rally further raised questions about his endorsements, particularly in the gubernatorial race.

However, Garcia said it would be  presumptuous  for her to speak on his behalf.

 He is still our official One Cebu nominee because we respect the equity of the incumbent,  Garcia told The Freeman in a phone interview.

Garcia has opted not to endorse any of her allies running against each other in local races, such as in Mandaue, where Cortes is being challenged by Cebu 6th District Board Member Jonkie Ouano also an ally of One Cebu.

 Mao na ang akong problema, puro naman ni allies. Di man sad ko kaingon nga kontra nato si Jonkie, so sama sa usa ka inahan, nag-away ang duha ka anak, magpataliwala ko,  Garcia said.

As once members of PDP-Laban, Garcia and Cortes resigned in May 2024 amid tensions within the party, particularly with Rama, PDP-Laban s vice president for the Visayas.  ATO (CEBU NEWS)