The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) officially started accepting certificates of candidacy (COC) on Tuesday, October 1, in preparation for the 2025 midterm elections.
This process marks the formal declaration of those seeking to run for various positions in the upcoming elections. Among the candidates are a notable number of celebrities from the entertainment industry, social media influencers, and beauty pageant figures who have decided to enter politics. With over 18,000 elective positions available at both the local and national levels, the 2025 elections promise to bring a diverse mix of candidates into the political arena.
Below are the list of celebrities and influencers who have filed for candidacy on the next election:
Arjo Atayde
The award-winning actor has officially filed his certificate of candidacy, seeking a second term as the representative of Quezon City’s first legislative district under the “Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas” party. If re-elected to the House of Representatives, he pledged to prioritize advancing the city’s flood control project, aiming to address one of its most pressing issues.
Alex Castro
The singer-actor is running for reelection as vice governor of the province, alongside his running mate, Daniel Fernando, who is seeking the governorship. Castro previously served in Bulacan’s Sangguniang Kabataan and Municipal Council (both for Marilao) and was a member of the Provincial Board for the fourth district. Their campaign focuses on continuing efforts to resolve Bulacan’s decades-old flooding issue.
Diwata
Social media personality Deo Balbuena, popularly known as Diwata and owner of Diwata Pares, is the fourth nominee of the Vendors Partylist. He humorously promised that if elected to Congress, he would offer “unli Pares” and free soft drinks in the House of Representatives. The partylist has committed to establishing a cooperative to provide vendors with easier access to necessary support, including assistance in securing a place to sell for those without one.
Marc Gamboa
The political vlogger behind the YouTube channel “Models of Manila TV” is running for senator, representing vloggers, online sellers, freelancers, and content creators. His platform includes plans to establish a dedicated office to combat fake news. In addition to supporting online sellers and content creators, he aims to create a 24/7 office focused on monitoring and reporting fake news.
Marco Gumabao
The actor is venturing into politics, having filed his certificate of candidacy for congressman in Camarines Sur’s fourth district. His bid is backed by the Villafuerte clan under the National Unity Party.
JC Parker
Former actress and Viva Hot Babe seeks reelection as the city councilor of Angeles, Pampanga.
Ion Perez
The “It’s Showtime” host is running for a counselor position in Concepcion, Tarlac, under the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC). His affiliation with the NPC highlights his commitment to forging strong alliances and serving with a broader sense of purpose.
Enzo Pineda
The actor, whose father Enrico previously served as a representative for the 1-Pacman Partylist in Congress, has filed his certificate of candidacy for councilor in Quezon City’s fifth district. When asked about his priority projects, Pineda mentioned that he has already been conducting medical missions across various barangays.
Rosmar Tan
The content creator and entrepreneur is running as an independent candidate for councilor in Manila’s first district. If elected, she plans to focus on initiatives such as providing maintenance medicines to senior citizens who cannot afford them.
Alfred Vargas
The actor-politician is running for reelection as councilor in Quezon City’s fifth district. He previously served three terms as the district’s congressman, and before that, a term as councilor for the city’s second district. He promises to prioritize public service over producing films, focusing fully on his role as councilor.
Who would you among these celebrity candidates; have you already decided? Keep that in mind until the 2025 Philippine general election, held on May 12, 2025.
Vote wisely!
