
IN a move highly anticipated by her supporters, Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, a respected political stalwart and beloved public servant, has officially announced her candidacy to reclaim the gubernatorial post in the Province of Batangas. The formal filing took place today at the COMELEC office in Batangas Provincial Capitol, marking the beginning of a campaign committed to continuing the province’s progress and improving the lives of Batangueños.
Responding to the call from her constituents and the province’s mayors, Santos-Recto a Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee is set to lead Batangas once again. Joining her are her sons, Luis Philippe “Lucky” Manzano, running for Vice Governor, and Ryan Recto, seeking a congressional seat in the 6th District. Together, under the united banner of One Batangas composed of seasoned and emerging leaders of the province, they aim to build on their family’s legacy of dedicated public service.
As they stand united, they bring forward a vision of a “Maunlad na Batangas, sa Bagong Pilipinas”—a vision that promises prosperity not only for Batangas but as a beacon of progress for the entire nation. The presence of newly Secretary of Finance Ralph G. Recto during the filing underscores the weight and significance of this collective effort, cementing the Recto family’s dedication to serving the country.
Running under the battle cry “Tuloy ang Serbisyong RECTO” (Continuing the RECTO Brand of Service), the campaign emphasizes the Recto family’s steadfast commitment to transformative governance. Santos-Recto, affectionately known as the “Star for All Seasons” for her dual achievements in entertainment and public service, is determined to lead Batangas with a platform centered on the HEARTS agenda—Health, Education, Agriculture, Roads and Infrastructure, Tourism, and Security. These critical sectors will serve as the foundation for her administration’s pursuit of inclusive growth, sustainable development, and enhanced quality of life for all Batangueños.
The campaign also highlights the introduction of new leadership in the form of Luis Philippe and Ryan, bringing fresh perspectives to the table. Their involvement signifies the blend of youthful innovation and seasoned experience that is expected to drive forward the HEARTS agenda with greater efficiency and energy.
As the campaign unfolds, Batangueños are invited to rally behind Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, Luis Philippe “Lucky” Manzano, and Ryan Recto as they embark on this united journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future, within the broader vision of a “Maunlad na Batangas sa Bagong Pilipinas.”