The tides of political power are ever-shifting, a truth as old as history itself. From the empires of Genghis Khan and the Romanovs to modern dictators like Saddam Hussein, no reign lasts forever. This universal principle plays out vividly in the local political landscape of the Philippines, particularly in the province of Pampanga.
The Unforgettable Figures of San Fernando
In San Fernando, the political narrative is rich with characters who left indelible marks. One of the most colorful and controversial figures was the late Mayor Armando P. 'Dondoy' Biliwang. He led the city during a turbulent period marked by the height of the dissident movement in Pampanga. Before entering politics, Biliwang worked as a clerk in a hardware store, demonstrating a journey far from traditional political dynasties.
Before his time, Dr. Jose Quiwa, a dentist, presided over the town's early growth. Other notable leaders who served the capital town include Levi Panlilio, Col. Amante Bueno, Vic Macalino, Virgilio Sanchez, Pat Guevarra, and Rey Aquino. However, in terms of legacy, Oscar Rodriguez is widely remembered as the leader who most endeared himself to Fernandinos. A former congressman with a notable stint in the House, Rodriguez, like current 'tiktoker Mayor' Vilma Caluag, was not born into wealth.
Legacies Across Pampanga's Municipalities
The story of service and transition repeats in neighboring towns. In Mabalacat, both long-serving Mayor Boking Morales and Cris Garbo are credited with leaving distinct legacies. The late Carlito Pineda, along with Catalino Domingo and Emiliano Candelaria, also served the town for many years.
In Porac, Mayors Higinio Gopez, Agapito Lansang, Nonong Lumanlan, and Roy David are recalled as outstanding and beloved executives. The virtue of humility marked the leadership of Sta. Rita's Mayor German Galang and Frank Ocampo. In Guagua, one of the best-known mayors was lawyer Carmelino Roque.
Other Notable Town Executives
The roster of unforgettable local leaders across Pampanga is extensive. It includes figures like Augusto Manapat and Benny Espino of Arayat, Domingo Flores of Macabebe, Epifanio Lacap of Masantol, Monico Mercado of Sasmuan, and Macario Gomez and Ninong Ronquillo of Sto. Tomas. Their collective service paints a picture of a province shaped by diverse personalities and styles of governance.
This reflection underscores a central theme: in politics, as in life, nothing is permanent. Dynasties like the Nepomucenos, who once dominated Pampanga politics but now have no one in office, give way to others like the Lazatins. Families such as the Macapagals persist, but for how long? The future may belong to new names like Mikey Arroyo or a Pineda. As the national political scene evolves from Duterte to Marcos, with potential future turns to figures like Raffy Tulfo or Leni Robredo, the local stage in Pampanga continues its own dynamic cycle of renewal and remembrance.
