Bridging a Divided House; Pagadian’s Political Future After the 2025 Elections

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

The 2025 elections have ushered in a striking political realignment in Pagadian City and across Zamboanga del Sur, marking the beginning of a new and complex chapter in the region’s governance.

Mayor Samuel “Sammy” Co has secured his final term as City Mayor a testament to his enduring support base and the legacy of his development-centered administration. However, his third and last term is now met with significant challenges, as he faces a City Council dominated by an opposing bloc. Only two councilors from the ten-member Sangguniang Panlungsod are politically aligned with him, while the rest including newly elected Vice Mayor Aiko Yu To represent a different political camp.

This internal divide in Pagadian's leadership raises concerns about potential policy deadlocks and the delay of urgent city programs. In a time when constituents are demanding more responsive governance, this fragmentation calls for cooperation over confrontation.

In contrast to the city’s divided leadership, the province of Zamboanga del Sur has seen a strong and unified political front. The elections delivered a decisive mandate to what many now call the "Yu-led political alliance", which continues to shape the province’s direction with consistency and stability.

Governor-elect Divina Grace Yu, the outgoing 1st District Representative, now takes the provincial helm, succeeding Governor Victor Yu. In the legislative arena, Rep. Victoria Yu and Rep. Joseph Yu will represent the first and second legislative districts, respectively further reinforcing a family-driven political coalition that has earned the trust of many voters across the province.

This alignment has brought about what some describe as a "governing continuity" a unified provincial government poised to deliver streamlined services, infrastructure, and public programs across municipalities. While others may raise concerns about political concentration, many supporters believe the Yu family's strong presence has provided stability and consistent development in the province.

The key question now: Can Pagadian City’s divided leadership work effectively alongside a unified provincial government?

We urge both city and provincial leaders  regardless of party affiliations to set aside personal and political differences in favor of public service. The next three years must not be wasted on political friction. Instead, it should be a time of strategic collaboration, especially on shared priorities like infrastructure, health care, tourism, education, and disaster resilience.

Pagadian remains the regional capital of Zamboanga Peninsula a growing city with ambitious people. It deserves leaders who can rise above politics and work together to realize its potential.

In the end, public office is a public trust and all elected officials, whether from a strong political family or independent background, must remain accountable to the people who put them in office.

The time for politics is over. The time for governance has begun.