The people of Baguio have spoken—and they have spoken for consistency. With Benjamin Magalong securing a decisive third and final term as mayor, the city has signaled its trust in his brand of governance: strategic, data-driven, and unflinching in its commitment to discipline. His re-election, alongside Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan and the return of former mayor Mauricio Domogan to Congress, paints a picture not just of political endurance but also of a yearning for stability in a time of national and global uncertainty.
But continuity must not breed complacency.
The overwhelming support for Magalong—55,497 votes—is both a compliment and a responsibility. Residents have endorsed not just a man but a vision: one rooted in order, modernization, and transparency. That endorsement, however, does not absolve the administration from re-evaluating the very systems it has built. As Baguio continues to confront issues such as overdevelopment, congestion, and gentrification, especially in the context of smart city initiatives and controversial traffic reforms, the people’s vote must be seen as a call for deeper inclusivity in policy-making.
The electorate has also revived the legacy of Mauricio Domogan, now reinstalled as Baguio’s congressional representative. His experience is undeniable, but this return also opens up old questions about dynasties and recycling in Philippine politics. Will Domogan offer fresh legislative perspectives, or will his term simply echo the past?
Meanwhile, the newly elected city council offers a mix of old and new names—an opportunity for balanced governance if used wisely. However, diversity in age and tenure should translate into diversity in opinion and action. A rubber-stamp council would be a disservice to the very people who voted them in.
It is also worth noting that despite a peaceful election and a relatively high turnout of over 74%, the vice mayoral protest filed by Mylen Yaranon reminds us that democracy does not end at the ballot box. If there are legitimate concerns about election integrity, they deserve transparent resolution, not dismissal.
Baguio stands at a crossroad: poised between honoring its past and building a livable, inclusive future. The voters have placed their trust once more in familiar leaders. It is now the duty of these leaders to prove that they can still listen, adapt, and govern—not for legacy, but for the people.
The last term should not be the most comfortable—it should be the most courageous.
