By Ricky J. Bautista | Editor, The Samar Chronicle
CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — The Tan siblings are set to maintain their dominance in the Philippine General Election on May 12, 2025, as no opposition candidates emerged to challenge their re-election bids.
Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Congressman Michael Reynolds Tan of the 2nd district, and Congressman Stephen James Tan of the 1st district, all from the Nacionalista Party, are positioned to retain their seats after the deadline for filing Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) passed at 5 PM on October 8, and no one tried to beat them.
The Tan family has been a formidable force in Samar politics for over a decade, with Sharee Ann Tan serving as governor since 2022, a position she previously held from 2010 to 2019. Her administration has focused on enhancing tourism, healthcare, and disaster resilience in the province.
Governor Tan expressed gratitude to their supporters, stating that their continued leadership would benefit all Samarnons.
“I thank all our leaders, coordinators, and supporters, even our opponents, for allowing us to continue our work in Samar,” she said.
Congressman Michael Reynolds Tan, in Congress office since 2022, has prioritized legislative initiatives aimed at economic growth and community development.
The young congressman from Samar’s second district, who previously served governor and vice-governor, is currently advocating for the completion of the Catbalogan City airport in Buri.
Meanwhile, Stephen James T. Tan, elected in 2022 as representative for Samar’s 1st district, has concentrated on improving educational programs and supporting local businesses. Known as “Jimboy” to friends, who also served as Samar Vice Governor from 2013 to 2018 is optimistic about a peaceful election, noting the absence of strong opposition.
Also, many mayoralty candidates from the Nacionalista Party are unopposed, solidifying their positions. The high number of board members also running unopposed creates a win-win scenario for the party.
In contrast, their uncle, incumbent Vice Governor Arnold Tan, faces a lone challenger, Martin Durmiendo from the Liberal Party. Catbalogan Mayor Dexter Uy and Calbayog City Mayor Monmon Uy are also up against single challengers.
Overall, the atmosphere inside the Tandaya hall felt more like a victory party than a simple gathering, as supporters cheered and congratulated the unopposed NP candidates.
Despite facing criticisms over political nepotism, poor Samar highways, contentious reclamation, demolition of Samar’s “Grandstand” and earlier plans to relocate several important government infrastructures, the Tan family has maintained a loyal voter base, largely due to their community engagement and development efforts. The lack of opposition candidates this election cycle highlights their entrenched political influence, as many local party members also filed unopposed.
Consolidation of power
Political analysts observe that the Tans’ uncontested candidacies signify a consolidation of power, raising questions about the future of political competition in Samar. Local observers will closely monitor how the Tan siblings address pressing provincial issues in the coming years.
As the election season unfolds, the Tans aim to build on their accomplishments to further entrench their political legacy in Samar, amid mixed sentiments from residents regarding the implications of their political landscape.
“Even if we have no opponents, we will continue to engage with communities to check on their needs,” Congressman Mike Tan stated.
