In Albay’s 1st District: Ako Bicol’s Jil to face mentor Krisel in polls

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

AKO Bicol Party-list lawmaker Raul Angelo “Jil” Bongalon is challenging his former political mentor, Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman, for the congressional seat in Albay’s first district in the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections.

Bongalon filed his certificate of candidacy under the Lakas-CMD party, running against outgoing Tabaco Mayor Krisel Lagman.

In a press interview, Bongalon shared, “We offer new hope, new leadership, innovative and practical solutions. As a new breed, my campaign tagline is ‘Bagong Pag-asa’ (new hope); “Bagong liderato sa Primer Distrito (new leadership in the first district).”

Bongalon’s political career began as an ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tabaco City, having served as the SK Federation president with support from the Lagman family.

His brother, Carlo “Bong” Bongalon, served as Mayor Lagman’s security officer for 12 years before resigning when relations between the Bongalon camp and the Lagmans soured. Bongalon’s candidacy was declared and endorsed by Ako Bicol Party-list founder Rep. Elizaldy S. Co last year.

Together with Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda of Albay’s second district, Bongalon has been distributing aid in the first district through government financial assistance programs under DSWD and DOLE since last year. On October 8, Bongalon formalized his candidacy by filing his certificate of candidacy on the last day of submission.

“My candidacy is a fight for change and for the future of Albay. The people deserve leaders who will represent them with integrity and dedication. I offer myself as a servant who will work for the development and empowerment of every Albayano, especially those who have been left behind,” Bongalon told the press.

He emphasized his platform on economic recovery, education, and legal empowerment, with a focus on youth and community development. He also called for a shift away from traditional political dynasties, promising fresh and dynamic leadership.

Bongalon’s opponent, Mayor Krisel Lagman, has served in various political roles for 23 years, including 15 years as both a legislator and city chief executive. She filed her certificate of candidacy on October 5.

Lagman, a nurse by profession, pledged to secure national government funding to assist solo parents and senior citizens. She also promised to prioritize funding for local government units to better support vulnerable sectors, particularly senior citizens.

“I filed my certificate of candidacy for a congressional seat 23 years ago. With my experience as both a legislator and a mayor, I will ensure that smaller LGUs receive adequate budgets to realize vital programs for the people,” Lagman said.

Reflecting on her father’s legacy, former Congressman Edcel Lagman, she added, “The first district of Albay was number one under my father’s leadership, and I will continue that legacy.”

Lagman also reiterated her commitment to pushing for the passage of the divorce bill, hoping the Senate will finally approve it. “Divorce does not destroy a good marriage; it only ends bad ones,” she remarked.

Lagman also acknowledged her history with Bongalon, noting that his brother had served as her security officer for years and that she had appointed Jil’s mother as director of the Tabaco Water District. She said: “A couple of months after reappointing her, Jil announced his congressional bid, despite his family denying such rumors.”

Mayor Lagman is also supporting three candidates for the provincial board: Lawyers John Gio Ong Bongao, a Tabaco City councilor, incumbent board member Sheina Onrubia-Dela Cruz, and Elmar Barreda, all of whom filed their candidacies alongside her on October 5.