Vilma Santos is set to return to the Batangas Provincial Capitol after winning the gubernatorial race. However, her running mate and son, TV host Luis "Lucky" Manzano, wasn’t as “lucky,” losing in the race for vice governor.
The award-winning actress served as the governor of Batangas for three terms from 2007 to 2016.
Santos garnered a total of 655,034 votes. Former Padre Garcia Mayor Mike Rivera came in second with 532,531 votes, followed by Mataasnakahoy Vice Mayor Jay Ilagan with 272,677 votes, and Barangay Chairman Walter Ozaeta in last place with 95,946 votes.
Santos-Recto was unable to attend her official proclamation, so the results were read by Provincial Board of Canvassers Chairperson Atty. Jonalyn Sabellano. According to her husband, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, the actress-politician was not feeling well.
“Nagpapahinga, nabinat. She was happy that she won naturally; of course sad as well that Lucky did not make it,“ said Recto.
Meanwhile, the couple’s youngest son, Ryan Christian Recto, won as congressman for the 6th District of Batangas, which covers Lipa City.
Ryan Recto received 92,823 votes, beating Bernadette Sabili who got 72,976 votes. Atty. Mar Panganiban garnered 20,872 votes, while Rodel Lacorte received 15,398 votes.
“To those who voted for me and to those who didn’t, I’m looking forward to serving both,” said the congressman-elect.
Incumbent Governor Hermilando Mandanas was proclaimed as the new vice governor of Batangas after defeating Manzano and Bauan Mayor Ryanh Dolor. Mandanas received 821,380 votes, while Manzano got 565,077 votes — a difference of 256,303. Dolor trailed with 127,036 votes.
Dolor’s wife, Wendha, won the mayoral race in Bauan.
Mandanas said he wasn’t surprised that Batangueños chose him over a TV host. “Ako naman ay taga rito at kilala ko ang ating mga kababayan kaya hindi surpresa. Ang totoo 'yun ang ating inaasahan,” said Mandanas.
He expressed hope for collaboration with Santos on programs for the province.
“Wala ako nakikita na hindi pagsasamahan na ayon sa ating tunay na hangarin na mapaglingkuran ang ating kapwa sa tulong at awa ng ating Panginoon,” he added.
Mandanas also thanked Manzano for showing the true culture, courage, and open-mindedness of Batangueños throughout the campaign.
RELATED VIDEOS: