Gladys Vergara, the eldest daughter and political successor of retired Congressman Bernie Vergara, formally declared her candidacy for Baguio City’s lone congressional seat in the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections. Following weeks of reflection, prayer, and consultation with her community, Gladys decided to pursue the seat once held by her father, who served with distinction for 12 years starting in 1992.
In a message to her supporters, Gladys invited them to join her on Monday, October 7, for a send-off mass at the Lady of Grace Community Church in Upper QM at 11:00 AM, followed by the filing of her certificate of candidacy at the Baguio Convention Center at 2:30 PM. She expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she received and the role it played in her decision to run for office.
“After much thought and prayer, I made the decision to run for Congress, offering my track record of service and leadership to the people of Baguio,” Gladys shared. She highlighted the strong encouragement from her community during her barangay visits as a significant factor in her decision to seek public office. Aside from being a successful entrepreneur, Gladys has served as the Chair of the Baguio Tourism Council since 2019, a role in which she has been instrumental in revitalizing the city’s tourism economy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing tourism as a primary economic driver for Baguio City.
Gladys affirmed her readiness to represent the city in Congress, saying, “My father’s legacy of exceptional public service will continue to guide me as I work to represent the interests of our people.” Gladys Vergara began her public service as the Kabataang Barangay Chair of Upper Quirino-Magsaysay (QM) Barangay, and in 1985, she was elected as the Kabataang Barangay (KB) City Federation President, representing the youth in the Baguio City Council. She later became the regional leader for Ilocos and the Cordillera and Vice President of the National KB Federation. In 1987, she was elected as a regular city councilor, she eventually ascended to the position of Vice Mayor of Baguio City by virtue of succession.
In addition to her public service, Gladys has earned respect in Baguio’s business community as a successful entrepreneur and an advocate for renewable energy projects and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, contributing to a more sustainable future. Gladys concluded her announcement by thanking her supporters and extending an invitation for snacks and fellowship at Swiss Baker following the filing of her candidacy. “I offer my gifts and experience in service to our community, praying that I may represent our people with competence, compassion, and integrity,” she said.
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