BAGUIO CITY – Gladys Vergara, chairperson of the Baguio Tourism Council and daughter of former Congressman Bernardo Vergara filed her Certificate of Candidacy to run for Congress in the upcoming elections last Monday, October 7, at Baguio Convention and Cultural Center.
Vergara was the first female vice mayor in Baguio City during the 1990s. She served as a city councilor during the 1980s. During these terms, Vergara was able to gather supporters to whom she feels gratitude as they were the same people who helped her decide to run.
She emphasized that the better candidate can offer a strong legislative agenda to improve residents’ quality of life while reinforcing Baguio’s reputation as a highly urbanized, livable city. “Baguio is not only a local treasure but a globally recognized tourist destination,” Vergara noted. “The next Congressman must prioritize progressive legislation to ensure Baguio remains a proud and joyful place for residents, tourists, and those who work here,” she added.
Vergara also expressed her aspiration to follow in her father’s footsteps by advocating for national support to transform Baguio into a smart city driven by good governance that transcends political affiliations. “As we move forward in this race, I urge my fellow aspirants to conduct a friendly rivalry marked by mutual respect and civility,” she added. She highlighted that while politics is temporary, friendships last a lifetime.
Bernie Vergara, who came along during the filing of the candidacy of her daughter, said that he would do whatever support he could. “Gawin niyo pang mas maganda ang vision and mission ng Baguio kaysa noong time ko. Mas magaling ka sa akin, cum laude ka, honorable mention lang ako,” he said.
John Glenn Gaerlan, who is running for a fourth time, appeals to the public to consider him to be included in the council. “Sana po ay mapagbigyan niyo ako ngayon na i-vote para councilor,” Gaerlan said. Gaerlan has been a coach for the University of Baguio Voices Chorale and part of the University of the Philippines Performing Group. By Michael Dadd and Audree Lumauig
