Cebu board member withdraws reelection bid

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‘We can’t afford to continue as an independent candidate in all aspects,’ Cebu Provincial Board Member John Ismael Borgonia says

CEBU, Philippines – Cebu Provincial Board Member John Ismael “Borgie” Borgonia has officially withdrawn his candidacy for reelection in Cebu’s 3rd District for the upcoming May 12 polls, citing a lack of party support and logistical constraints.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) formally accepted Borgonia’s withdrawal on March 24. However, the poll body clarified that his name can no longer be removed from the official ballot, and any votes cast for him will be considered stray and will not be counted.

In a statement issued on Saturday, April 19, Borgonia explained that running as an independent in the 3rd District — which includes the towns of Balamban, Asturias, Tuburan, Pinamungajan, Aloguinsan, Barili, and Toledo City — would require “organized force and funding,” which he said that he currently lacks.

“Dili nato makaya nga magpadayon isip usa ka independent candidate sa tanang aspeto — logistics, resources, ug effort,” Borgonia said.

(We can’t afford to continue as an independent candidate in all aspects — logistics, resources, and effort.)

“Rather than compromise the quality of my campaign and service, I have chosen to step back and focus on finishing my current term strong,” he added.

He said his decision came after consulting with his family and campaign team.

Borgonia emphasized his commitment to maximize the remaining months of his term, which ends in June, by focusing on legislative work, completing ongoing programs, and ensuring a smooth turnover for initiatives such as Sugbo Kahanas, Sugbo Negosyo, CP-Gifts Scholarship, and various barangay-level projects.

The two-term board member, first elected in 2019 and reelected in 2022, expressed his deep gratitude to his constituents for their continued trust and support.

“Public service does not end with a position. If circumstances no longer allow me to serve in this capacity, then I will continue to serve in other ways,” he said. – Rappler.com

This article is republished with permission from Sun.Star Cebu as part of a content-sharing partnership for the 2025 Philippine elections.