When politics heats up in Tarlac, you can bet the chessboard is set, and every move counts. As a PR strategist and practitioner, here’s my personal take on what’s really happening—and what could happen next—in the unfolding legal and political drama between the camps of Mayor Yap and Vic Angeles.
If I were on the Angeles side, I’d immediately hire the best legal minds—not just to defend, but to go on the offensive. File motion after motion, bombard the system with petitions, and do everything to make sure any appeal or reconsideration doesn’t reach the Supreme Court.
Now, if I were with the Yap camp, my strategy would be the opposite: get an equally solid team, delay the process, and aim straight for the Supreme Court. Why? Because once a case reaches that level, the clock runs longer—maybe even long enough to stretch things until 2028.
Let’s be real: if I were in their shoes, I’d build a powerhouse legal team—throw in a few retired justices, maybe even a former Chief Justice. After all, in Philippine politics, the law isn’t just about logic—it’s about leverage. And yes, the so-called kamadahan (connections) within COMELEC and the intricate coordination from the Justice Department, Malacañang, and their extended networks will play a huge role behind the scenes.
But beyond the courtroom, the real battle will be fought on social media. Both camps are likely preparing a narrative war—framing their side as the victim, the righteous, the one fighting for “truth.” Expect a digital crossfire from supporters, trolls, and the ever-present “sawsaw sa issue” crowd—those who act like legal experts after one Facebook post.
Is this new? Hardly. Maybe for Tarlac, yes—but not for the Philippines. We’ve seen similar cases before:
1. Silang, Cavite (2022–2025) – Mayor Kevin Anarna’s disqualification saga.
2. Cabanatuan City (2013) – Mayor Jay Vergara’s legal battle.
3. San Juan City (2016) – Mayor Guia Gomez faced election protests.
4. Cebu City (2016) – Mayor Michael Rama’s case dragged on for years.
Our in-house election lawyer at Central Luzon Balita explained it clearly: this kind of “dragging” is perfectly legal under our election system.
Here’s how it works:
The COMELEC Division issues a decision → losing party appeals to the COMELEC en banc.
They then file a Motion for Reconsideration, which delays finality.
Even if the en banc affirms disqualification, the losing party can still run to the Supreme Court with a Petition for Certiorari.
If the Court issues a TRO or status quo ante order, the disqualified mayor stays in power until the process is done.
And yes, this can drag on for months or even years.
In the end, both camps have the right to fight—but they should never forget who really suffers in these power struggles: the people. While politicians play chess, ordinary Tarlacquenos are the pawns caught in the waiting game.
If only there was a way to reconcile—or at least put public welfare above pride—maybe, just maybe, peace would come sooner. But as it stands, unless someone from the heavens (an Angel maybe) intervenes, that remains wishful thinking.
Why does this matter to everyone in Tarlac City?
Because what’s happening in Tarlac City mirrors what happens across our nation: justice delayed, politics weaponized, and people forgotten. Until we fix how power and law intertwine, the story will always be the same—different names, same game.
So, what do you think—is this a fight for justice or just another play for power?
end
Angel Faith is a seasoned broadcast journalist and public relations strategist with over eight years of experience in broadcast and digital media. She focuses on travel, living, and people stories that inspire and inform audiences across platforms.As the President of Central Luzon Balita, the first digital news outfit in Region 3, Philippines, she leads a team committed to credible storytelling and regional empowerment through digital journalism.
For collaborations and media partnerships, contact 0956 439 7000 via Viber, WhatsApp, SMS, or Telegram.
Follow for more stories that matter. What are your thoughts? Share them using #angelfaith
Comments
0 comment