ELECTION RESULTS: Candidates in the 2025 Philippine Senate

The RESULTS OF SENATES CANDIDATE 2025 Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has finalized the list of candidates who will appear on the ballot for the upcoming 2025 elections. This comprehensive list includes all those accepted by the COMELEC, as well as any candidates whose inclusion was mandated by the Supreme Court. The upcoming election promises to be a pivotal moment in Philippines political landscape, with a diverse range of candidates vying for various offices.

While a complete, detailed breakdown of every candidate across all positions would be extensive, this article aims to provide a general overview of the key races and the individuals competing for the electorate’s votes.

2025 SENATES ELECTION RESULTS — 2025 SENATES
ELECTION RESULTS

Candidate, Party (and Alliance if any), and Prior Political Experience. Only those included in the ballot are listed, excluding those marked “later withdrew.”

Candidate	Party / Alliance	Prior Political Experience RESULTS
Benhur Abalos	PFP / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Secretary of the Interior and Local Government (2022–2024)
Jerome Adonis	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Secretary general of Kilusang Mayo Uno
Wilson Amad	Independent	—
Jocelyn Andamo	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Secretary general of Filipino Nurses United
	KANP / KiBam	Senator (2013–2019)
Ronnel Arambulo	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Vice chairperson of Pamalakaya
Ernesto Arellano	KKK	—
Roberto Ballon	Independent	Leader of Kapunungan sa Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion
Abigail Binay	NPC / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Mayor of Makati (2016–present)
Jimmy Bondoc	PDP / DuterTen	PAGCOR Board of Directors (2021–2022)
Bong Revilla	Lakas / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Bonifacio Bosita	Independent / Riding-in-tandem Team	House representative, 1-Rider Partylist (2022–present)
Arlene Brosas	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	House representative for GABRIELA (since 2016)
Roy Cabonegro	DPP	—
Allen Capuyan	PPP	Chair, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (2019–2023)
Teodoro Casiño	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	House representative, Bayan Muna (2004–2013)
France Castro	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	House representative for ACT Teachers (since 2016)
Pia Cayetano	Nacionalista / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
David d’Angelo	Bunyog	—
Angelo de Alban	Independent	—
Leody de Guzman	PLM	Chairman, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino
Ronald dela Rosa	PDP / DuterTen	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Mimi Doringo	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Secretary general of Kadamay
Arnel Escobal	PM	—
Luke Espiritu	PLM	President, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino
Mody Floranda	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Chairperson of PISTON
Marc Gamboa	Independent	—
Bong Go	PDP / DuterTen	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Norberto Gonzales	PDSP	Secretary of National Defense (2009–2010)
Jesus Hinlo Jr.	PDP / DuterTen	Commissioner, Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (2022)
Gregorio Honasan	Reform PH	Senator (2007–2019); Secretary of ICT (2019–2021)
Relly Jose Jr.	KBL	—
Panfilo Lacson	Independent / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Senator (2016–2022)
Raul Lambino	PDP / DuterTen	CEO, Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (2017–2022)
Lito Lapid	NPC / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Amirah Lidasan	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Co-chair, Sandugo Movement for Moro and Indigenous Peoples
Rodante Marcoleta	Independent / DuterTen	House representative for SAGIP Partylist (since 2016)
Imee Marcos	Nacionalista / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Norman Marquez	Independent	—
Eric Martinez	Independent	House representative from Valenzuela’s 2nd district (since 2016)
Richard Mata	Independent / DuterTen	—
Sonny Matula	WPP	President of the Federation of Free Workers
Liza Maza	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Lead convenor, National Anti-Poverty Commission (2016–2018)
Heidi Mendoza	Independent	COA Commissioner (2011–2015); UN Under-Secretary-General for OIOS (2015–2019)
Jose Montemayor Jr.	Independent	—
Subair Mustapha	WPP	—
Jose Olivar	Independent	—
Manny Pacquiao	PFP / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Senator (2016–2022)
Francis Pangilinan	Liberal / KiBam	Senator (2016–2022)
Ariel Querubin	Nacionalista / Riding-in-tandem Team	Colonel, Philippine Marine Corps
Apollo Quiboloy	Independent / DuterTen	—
Danilo Ramos	Makabayan / Oposisyon ng Bayan	Chairperson of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas
Willie Revillame	Independent	—
Vic Rodriguez	Independent / DuterTen	Executive Secretary (2022)
Nur-Ana Sahidulla	Independent	House representative from Sulu’s 2nd district (2013–2016)
Phillip Salvador	PDP / DuterTen	—
Tito Sotto	NPC / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Senator (2010–2022); Senate president (2018–2022)
Michael Tapado	PM	—
Francis Tolentino	PFP / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	Incumbent senator (since 2019)
Ben Tulfo	Independent	—
Erwin Tulfo	Lakas / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	House representative, ACT-CIS Partylist (since 2023)
Mar Valbuena	Independent	Chairperson of Manibela
Leandro Verceles Jr.	Independent	Governor of Catanduanes (2001–2007)
Camille Villar	Nacionalista / Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas	House representative from Las Piñas (since 2019)

The 202X Election: A Look at Rejected Candidacies

The road to the 202X elections wasn’t smooth for everyone. While many candidates successfully navigated the process and secured their place on the ballot, a significant number were rejected by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). This article examines the individuals whose candidacies were denied, highlighting the sheer volume of hopefuls who were ultimately unable to participate in the upcoming election.

The following list, organized chronologically by the date of filing, represents a substantial portion of those whose applications were rejected. The reasons for rejection are not explicitly stated here, but likely include various factors such as incomplete documentation, failure to meet eligibility criteria, or other procedural issues. The sheer number of rejected candidacies underscores the rigorous process involved in running for office.

October 1st Filings:

David Chan
Alexander Encarnacion
Felipe Montealto Jr.
Janice Padilla
Joseph Dy
Najar Salih
Daniel Magtira
Happy Lubarbio
Norman Marquez
Phil delos Reyes
Marc Gamboa
Miguelino Caturan
Sunang Ditanongun

October 2nd Filings:

Victoriano Inte
Eric Negapatan
Magno Manalo
Bethsaida Lopez
Manuel Andrada
Jonry Gargarita

October 3rd Filings:

Jose Bunilla
Jaime Balmas
Elpidio Rosales Jr.
Robert Agad
Khaled Casimra
Jimmy Salapantan
Rex Noel
Roel Pacquiao

October 4th Filings:

Froilan Serafico
Ernesto Balite
Elvis Beniga

October 5th Filings:

Warlito Bovier
Wilson Aclan
Charito Billones
Jerson Ares
Primo Capuno Jr.
Leodegario Estrella
Richard Nicolas
Rolando Plaza
Virginia Sabit

October 6th Filings:

Junbert Guigayuma
Sixto Lagare
John Rafael Escobar

October 7th Filings:

Pedro Ordiales
James Reyes Jr.
Nelson Ancajas
Maria Fe Era
Diego Palomares
Gerard Arcega
Mario Pagaragan Jr.
Angelo de Alban
Luther Meniano
Hernando Bruce
Alice Jumalon
Eulogio Partosa
Epifanio Perez
Mario Valbuena Jr.
Freddie Maiquez
Leo Cadion
Getter Malinao
Salipada Amir Hussin
Joel Apolinario
Allen Capuyan
Artemio Maquiso
Jose Tam
Oscar Ongjoco
Jacinto Bonayag
Ferdinand Tuzara
Agapito Casipong
Fernando Diaz
Orlando de Guzman
Edgardo Dugue
Jefrey Andrino
Nheling Plaza
Eduardo Bautista

October 8th Filings:

Peter Joemel Advincula
Princess Jade de Leon
Jovilyn Aceron
Leandro Verceles
Fernando Advincula
Joseph Delgado
Eric Alcantara
Rosalin Cay
Randy Red
Romulo San Ramon
Abel Adorable
Mercedita Acoplado
Randy Restum
Emilio Chan
Devienido Biazon Jr.
Rodolfo Basilan
Primo Aquino
Roel Lamoste
Vicente Domingo
Gem Domagtoy
Monique Kokkinaras
Injim Bunayog
Ismael Bajo
Omar Tomanong
Salvador Cabalida
Berteni Causing
Melchor Lucañas
Antonio Par
Robert Marcos Tallano Tagean
Loreto Banosan
Faith Ugsad
Wilfredo Red
Edmundo Rubi
Patrick Artajo
Rafael Chico
Romeo Macaragg
Celeste Aguillar
Shirley Cuatchin
Ricarda Arguilles
Sonny Pimentel
Enrique Olonan
Willie Ricablanca Jr.
Alexander Lague
Melissa Fortes
Roberto Sembrano
Gabriel Chaclag

This extensive list serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of Philippine politics and the high bar set for those seeking public office. While these individuals did not make it onto the ballot this time, their efforts highlight the engagement of citizens in the democratic process. Further investigation into the specific reasons for each rejection would provide a more complete understanding of the COMELEC’s decision-making process.

Withdrawal of Candidacies: A Shifting Political Landscape in the 2025 Election

Candidate	Party	Reason for Withdrawal	Date Withdrawn
Delfin Lorenzana	Independent	Not disclosed	October 8, 2024
Chavit Singson	Independent	Health concerns	January 16, 2025
Francis Leo Marcos	Independent	Not specified (after SC TRO)	January 23, 2025
Wilbert T. Lee	Aksyon Demokratiko	Lack of political machinery	February 10, 2025
Willie Ong	Aksyon Demokratiko	Health concerns	February 21, 2025 (formal)

In a political race as dynamic and unpredictable as the 2025 national elections, several high-profile candidates have decided to withdraw from the fray, leading to major changes in the landscape. These withdrawals have occurred both before and after the official approval of candidacies, each one shaping the course of the campaign in its own way. The political drama of these decisions, marked by personal reasons, health concerns, and disqualification rulings, has left both supporters and analysts questioning the true impact on the elections’ final outcome.

Before the Approval of Candidacies: Delfin Lorenzana’s Sudden Withdrawal

The first notable withdrawal came early on in the campaign season, when Delfin Lorenzana, a prominent figure in the country’s defense establishment and former Secretary of National Defense, decided to pull out of the race. Lorenzana, who had filed his candidacy as an independent, announced his decision on October 8, 2024, just before the candidacies were officially approved. This move surprised many, considering Lorenzana’s standing as a respected figure in the military and defense circles. His sudden exit left many questioning the internal pressures or personal reasons that led to his decision, though the public explanation was vague. Lorenzana’s departure opened the door for other independent candidates, but his absence also represented the loss of a figure many saw as a stabilizing force in national defense policy.

After the Approval: Chavit Singson’s Health-Driven Withdrawal

As the candidacies moved from preliminary filing to the approval phase, another shocking development unfolded. Chavit Singson, the former mayor of Narvacan in Ilocos Sur and a long-time political power broker, withdrew from the Senate race on January 12, 2025, citing serious health concerns. Known for his larger-than-life persona and deep ties within both local and national politics, Singson’s decision to step back from his campaign surprised many, especially considering his earlier enthusiasm about joining the race. His official withdrawal followed shortly thereafter, on January 16, 2025. For those familiar with Singson’s reputation, his departure marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of the election, especially for voters who were drawn to his political clout and his involvement in the local Ilocos region.

The Case of Francis Leo Marcos: Disqualification, Restraint, and Withdrawal

Another candidate whose path was marked by legal and procedural hurdles was Francis Leo Marcos, an independent aspirant. Marcos initially found himself disqualified by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), which ruled that his candidacy did not meet the necessary requirements. This decision could have ended his bid for the Senate, but in a dramatic twist, the Supreme Court intervened. On January 21, 2025, the Court granted Marcos a temporary restraining order, effectively reversing the disqualification and allowing him to be listed on the ballot. This development sparked intense debate among political observers and legal experts, as the Court’s decision raised questions about the power dynamics within the electoral process.

However, just two days later, Marcos withdrew his candidacy on January 23, 2025. Though the reason for his withdrawal wasn’t immediately clear, many speculated that the legal battle, combined with the shifting tide of the race, led Marcos to reassess his chances in the election. His departure was a clear reminder of the volatile nature of Philippine politics, where candidates may rise and fall quickly based on legal, health, or personal factors.

Wilbert T. Lee and Willie Ong: The Aksyon Demokratiko Withdrawals

The political arena saw further shake-ups when two candidates from the Aksyon Demokratiko party decided to step down from their bids. Wilbert T. Lee, who had initially declared his intention to run, made the decision to withdraw on February 10, 2025. Lee cited insufficient political machinery to mount a credible national campaign as the primary reason for his departure. Despite his initial enthusiasm and support from certain sectors, Lee’s exit left a gap in the party’s representation, highlighting the importance of political infrastructure and grassroots support in a highly competitive race.

Shortly after Lee’s departure, Willie Ong, a popular health advocate and former presidential candidate, also announced his intent to withdraw from the race. Ong, who had been a key figure in the Aksyon Demokratiko slate, attributed his decision to ill health. This announcement was a blow to his supporters, many of whom admired his passion for public service and his commitment to addressing healthcare issues in the country. Ong’s wife, Liza Ong, formally filed the withdrawal papers on his behalf on February 21, 2025, completing the process and confirming that his campaign would no longer continue.

The Aftermath of These Withdrawals: A Shifting Election Narrative

The withdrawals of these candidates have not only reshaped the race but also stirred up deeper conversations about the factors influencing political decisions in the Philippines. Health concerns, the ability to mount a nationwide campaign, and legal challenges all play significant roles in the electoral process, and in this case, they’ve forced voters and political analysts alike to reconsider the reliability of early campaign declarations.

For many, the departure of such notable figures signals the unpredictability of Philippine politics. Just when it seemed that the race was shaping up to be a battle between established names and political veterans, these withdrawals have created new opportunities for emerging candidates to rise and make their mark.

As the 2025 election date draws closer, the remaining candidates—both newcomers and veterans—will need to adapt to these changes. The race, now devoid of several prominent names, presents a fresh opportunity for other figures to seize the spotlight. The political landscape may have been altered, but the show must go on. And with it, the drama, the aspirations, and the struggles of the candidates vying for a chance to lead the nation. The question now is: who will rise to fill the void left by these withdrawn figures? Only time will tell.

The Senators Who Never Were: High-Profile Figures Decline Senate Bids in 2025 Race

declined to run for senator in 2025, along with the positions they are running for or holding instead:

Name	Position/Decision in 2025
Leila de Lima (Liberal)	Running as Mamamayang Liberal party-list nominee
Chel Diokno (Akbayan)	Running as Akbayan party-list nominee
Paolo Duterte (HTL)	Running for re-election as House representative, Davao City
Rodrigo Duterte (HTL)	Running for mayor of Davao City
Sebastian Duterte (HTL)	Running for vice mayor of Davao City
Richard Gomez (PFP)	Running for re-election as House representative, Leyte’s 4th dist.
Isko Moreno (Aksyon)	Running for mayor of Manila
Leni Robredo (Liberal)	Running for mayor of Naga, Camarines Sur
Rufus Rodriguez (CDP)	Running for re-election as House representative, CDO 2nd dist.
Yedda Marie Romualdez (Tingog)	Running for re-election as party-list representative for Tingog
Gilbert Teodoro (PRP)	Remained as Secretary of National Defense
Antonio Trillanes (Aksyon)	Running for mayor of Caloocan

As the 2025 Philippine national elections gather momentum, political watchers have been keenly observing not just who entered the senatorial race—but also who deliberately chose not to. In a surprising yet telling twist, several prominent figures, including former senators, national leaders, and influential lawmakers, have declined to run for the Senate, instead opting for other political paths or choosing to remain in their current roles. Their decisions have redefined the composition and dynamics of the Senate contest, leaving gaps in the race but simultaneously reinforcing the complexity of Philippine politics.

Leila de Lima: From Senate to the House

Leila de Lima, the former senator and Secretary of Justice known for her unwavering stance on human rights and justice, surprised many when she announced she would not seek a return to the Senate. Instead, de Lima is charting a new course as a party-list nominee for Mamamayang Liberal, shifting her battle for justice from the Senate floor to the House of Representatives. After spending years in detention on controversial charges that many view as politically motivated, her decision is strategic—aiming for a more accessible seat in the House that could allow her to re-enter national politics while championing causes for human rights, rule of law, and democratic resilience.

Chel Diokno: Reform from the Ground Up

Another prominent liberal voice, Chel Diokno, also chose a different path. Diokno, a distinguished human rights lawyer and perennial senatorial contender, has twice attempted to break into the Senate, earning admiration for his intellect and integrity even if votes fell short. For the 2025 elections, Diokno has declined another Senate bid and is instead running as the party-list nominee for Akbayan, a progressive coalition aiming to amplify grassroots participation in governance. This move indicates a tactical pivot toward policy influence through the House, where party-list groups play a critical role in representing sectoral interests. For Diokno, it appears that policy depth may now trump political stage.

The Dutertes: A Local Power Base Reinforced

Perhaps most emblematic of strategic recalibration is the decision of the Duterte political dynasty to focus inward—toward Davao City, their long-held stronghold—rather than on national Senate seats. Despite being floated by Vice President Sara Duterte as possible Senate candidates, all three Duterte men—Rodrigo, Paolo, and Sebastian—opted to reinforce their positions at the local level.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte, in a surprising but calculated move, is running for mayor of Davao City, returning to the post that defined his political identity prior to the presidency. His youngest son, Sebastian Duterte, currently Davao’s mayor, has filed to run as vice mayor, essentially swapping places with his father and preserving their family’s grip on local governance. Meanwhile, Paolo Duterte, the eldest son, has decided to seek re-election as House representative for Davao City’s 1st district under Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod, their regional political party.

This collective decision to stay local appears to be a consolidation strategy—one that ensures the Duterte brand remains politically potent, though not directly on the national Senate stage. It may also signal a long-term plan to keep their influence alive through the next political cycles without exposing themselves to the scrutiny and volatility of national office.

Staying the Course: Other Decliners Focus on Re-election

Beyond these headline names, other prominent personalities also chose continuity over risk. Richard Gomez, the actor-turned-lawmaker and incumbent representative for Leyte’s 4th district under PFP, is seeking re-election rather than making a Senate run. Likewise, Yedda Marie Romualdez, House representative of the Tingog Party-list, and Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro’s 2nd district, will both run for re-election, reinforcing their footholds in the House.

Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro, incumbent Secretary of National Defense and once a presidential candidate, opted not to re-enter the electoral battlefield. Instead, he continues to serve in the Cabinet, providing policy continuity and perhaps avoiding the grueling demands of a national campaign. His steady presence in the defense sector contrasts sharply with the campaign chaos of the election season.

Isko Moreno and Antonio Trillanes: Shifting Urban Battlegrounds

Isko Moreno, the charismatic former mayor of Manila and 2022 presidential candidate, is making a familiar return—this time running once again for mayor of Manila under Aksyon Demokratiko. After his national loss, Moreno is aiming to rebuild his influence on the local stage, where his leadership once garnered both praise and controversy.

Meanwhile, Antonio Trillanes IV, the former senator known for his outspoken criticism of the Duterte administration, is pivoting to a different arena. He has thrown his hat into the ring for mayor of Caloocan, a strategic city in Metro Manila. While not as high-profile a role as senator, a mayoral post in Caloocan offers an influential urban platform for launching broader policy initiatives—and possibly future political campaigns.

Leni Robredo: A Humble but Symbolic Return

Perhaps the most profound symbolic decision came from Leni Robredo, the former Vice President and leader of the opposition during the Duterte presidency. Rather than re-entering national office or returning to the Senate, Robredo is running for mayor of Naga City, her hometown in Camarines Sur. Her choice to return to her roots resonates deeply with supporters who see her as a model of servant leadership. It also signals a possible long-term strategy to rebuild grassroots support and regain the trust of voters at the most fundamental level of governance.

A Redefined Political Map

The decisions by these political heavyweights to forgo Senate runs have reshaped the contours of the 2025 race. Some are seeking influence through local governance, others through the party-list system or re-election in the House, and a few, like Gibo Teodoro, are opting to maintain executive roles in government.

Their absence from the Senate ballot reflects not a retreat from politics, but rather a strategic repositioning. As power shifts from one chamber or level of government to another, these moves illustrate the nuanced calculations politicians make in a complex and often unforgiving political environment.

In a nation where name recognition and public perception are paramount, these choices—sometimes humble, sometimes tactical—may ultimately prove more powerful than another Senate term. And as the campaign season continues, the impact of these absences will be felt not just in the polls, but in the kind of governance and leadership that emerges in the years to come.