Congressional Race 2025: Spotlight on the Top 3 Contenders

The race for Baguio City’s congressional seat is heating up, with two women candidates vying for the position and a veteran politician attempting a comeback.

Gladys Vergara: Building on a Legacy

Leading the pack is Gladys Vergara, daughter of the late Bernie Vergara, a revered former mayor and congressman affectionately known as the “Action Man.” Bernie’s transformative projects, including the construction of Marcos Highway and its flyover and viaduct, pedestrian overpasses, covered basketball courts, the BGH and Baguio-La Trinidad flyovers, and the rehabilitation of City Camp Lagoon, left an enduring legacy in the city. Gladys has committed to continuing this legacy by focusing on impactful, visible projects that address the city’s needs.

What sets Gladys apart is her extensive public service record. Before her father’s tenure, she served as Vice President of the Kabataang Barangay National Executive Council following her leadership as KB Federation President of Baguio. She also held prominent roles as a City Councilor (1988-92)and Vice Mayor by virtue of succession (1992), cementing her reputation as a competent and experienced leader. Gladys Vergara is currently the Chairman of the Baguio Tourism Council.

Among the top contenders, Gladys’s dynamic leadership, stamina, and legislative expertise position her as a strong candidate capable of navigating the demands of the role.

Sol Go: From Behind the Scenes to Center Stage

Soledad “Sol” Go, the wife of outgoing Congressman Mark Go, has emerged as another key contender. With Congressman Mark Go now running for mayor against incumbent Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Sol is seeking to step into her husband’s congressional shoes.

While Sol’s candidacy has sparked debate, her community engagement efforts, particularly targeting grassroots groups and senior citizens, have raised questions. Critics have noted the prevalence of dole-out initiatives, prompting discussions about the long-term sustainability and transparency of her approach. Concerns about campaign financing, fueled by speculation over the source of funds for Mark and Sol Go’s activities, further complicate public perception.

As voters assess Sol’s qualifications and the nature of her campaign, they must decide whether her bid represents genuine public service or an extension of her husband’s political legacy.

Atty. Mauricio “Morris” Domogan: A Veteran’s Last Stand?

Rounding out the top three contenders is Atty. Mauricio “Morris” Domogan, a seasoned politician who played a significant role in Baguio’s development alongside Bernie Vergara. Domogan’s decades-long public service career and contributions to key infrastructure projects are well-recognized.

However, recent setbacks, including his 2019 loss to Mark Go in the congressional race and his 2022 mayoral defeat to Benjamin Magalong, have raised questions about whether it is time for him to retire from politics. Critics argue that Domogan’s advanced age and recent losses signal a waning ability to meet the physical and emotional demands of public office.

The electorate now faces the challenge of evaluating whether experience and legacy outweigh the need for fresh energy, vision, and sincerity in leadership.

The Road Ahead

As the campaign unfolds, voters will grapple with contrasting visions, leadership styles, and approaches to governance among the candidates. Ultimately, the choice will hinge on who can best address Baguio City’s evolving needs while embodying the qualities of transparency, accountability, and genuine public service. ### FNS Admin Research