Several celebrities and personalities have officially filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COC) for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, showcasing a blend of reelectionists and newcomers in the political arena. The filing period, which runs from October 1 to October 8, has seen numerous public figures from various industries, including entertainment, sports, and social media, announcing their political ambitions.
The 2025 midterm elections, scheduled for May, will see over 18,000 positions up for grabs, including seats for senators, party-list representatives, members of the House of Representatives, and local government posts. Among the first to file their COCs are notable figures from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas” slate, including Eat Bulaga! host Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and actor Lito Lapid.
Several celebrities are now gunning for various positions in the Senate. Lito Lapid, known for his role in Batang Quiapo, is eyeing a fourth term in the Senate, pledging to focus on providing free legal assistance. Former actor Phillip Salvador has also thrown his hat in the ring, emphasizing his desire to push for crime reduction and stronger anti-drug laws. Tito Sotto, former Senate President and long-time TV host, seeks to return to the Senate, highlighting his advocacy for government rightsizing and legislation against fake news. Meanwhile, doctor and social media personality Willie Ong will also run for a Senate seat, despite his ongoing battle with cancer. His COC was filed on his behalf by his wife, Dr. Liza Ong.
In the House of Representatives, Quezon City 1st District Representative and actor Arjo Atayde has filed for reelection, accompanied by his family and prominent political figures. Fellow actors Jolo Revilla and Lani Mercado-Revilla, who represent Cavite’s 1st and 2nd districts respectively, are also seeking another term in office. Additionally, actor Marco Gumabao will vie for a seat as representative of Camarines Sur’s 4th district.
Other notable personalities entering the political scene include social media personality Deo Balbuena, who filed his COC as the fourth nominee for the Vendors party list, and Luis Manzano, who is running for Batangas vice governor. His mother, actress and former Batangas governor Vilma Santos-Recto, also filed her COC, aiming to reclaim her previous gubernatorial position.