Senator-elect Bam Aquino, a top vote-getter in Central Luzon campaigns before the election. (Photo: Ban Aquino Instagram page)
SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA — The vote-rich Central Luzon region played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the 2025 Philippine midterm elections, delivering sweeping victories for several incumbents and reaffirming political dynasties across its seven provinces.
Home to over 7.7 million registered voters, Region III — composed of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales — is often considered a political bellwether due to its size, diversity, and proximity to Metro Manila.
The region also boasts strong economic and agricultural sectors, further amplifying the national significance of its electoral preferences.
Local Races: Incumbents and Dynasties Hold Strong
As confirmed by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), most gubernatorial seats were retained by incumbents or political families with long-standing local influence:
- Aurora: Reynante Tolentino secured victory, continuing the province’s trend of electing leaders with deep grassroots networks.
- Bataan: Joet Garcia, part of the influential Garcia clan, was re-elected with a wide margin.
- Bulacan: Governor Daniel Fernando successfully defended his seat amid challenges over provincial development and urban expansion.
- Nueva Ecija: Rodolfo Antonino returned to the governor’s office, marking a political comeback for the Antonino family.
- Pampanga: Dennis “Delta” Pineda triumphed anew, solidifying the Pineda family’s enduring grip on Pampanga politics.
- Tarlac: Susan Yap, scion of the Yap political dynasty, retained her governorship.
- Zambales: Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. and his allies scored a complete victory in local races, affirming the veteran politician’s continued sway.
Senate Race: Aquino Tops Central Luzon
In the senatorial elections, former Senator Bam Aquino was the top choice among Central Luzon voters.
His strong showing in the region—alongside leads in NCR and Southern Luzon—propelled him to second place in the national tally.
Aquino’s performance marked a notable comeback, defying earlier surveys and underscoring the influence of regional vote concentrations.
Aquino’s popularity in Central Luzon was attributed to his emphasis on education, livelihood programs, and a well-organized grassroots campaign that resonated with both urban and rural constituents.
Clean and Peaceful Conduct
COMELEC hailed the elections in Central Luzon as “very orderly, very peaceful,” citing only minimal disruptions.
Of the thousands of vote-counting machines deployed, only 32 required replacement due to technical glitches—an issue swiftly resolved by local election officials.
No major incidents of violence or fraud were reported, reinforcing the region’s reputation for organized and credible elections.
Strategic Relevance
The significance of Central Luzon extends beyond its electorate. As a key corridor for infrastructure, logistics, and agribusiness, the region’s political direction has implications for national development agendas.
Its support can also influence future presidential races, given its role as a swing region with no single dominant political bloc.
With the midterms concluded, political observers are closely watching Central Luzon for early signs of coalition-building and positioning ahead of the 2028 national elections.
Source: Commission on Elections (COMELEC)
For full results, visit http://www.comelec.gov.ph
