Vilma Santos, sons Luis Manzano, Ryan Recto seek Batangas posts in 2025 polls

(From left) Vilma Santos, Jessy Mendiola, Ralph Recto, Isabella Rose Manzano, Luis Manzano and Ryan Recto. Image: Instagram/@luckymanzano; Facebook/Mayor Eric B. Africa

Vilma Santos and her sons Luis Manzano and Ryan Recto filed their respective certificates of candidacy (COCs) for various posts in Batangas for the 2025 midterm elections.

Santos is vying to return as Batangas governor, while Manzano is running for vice governor. Ryan, meanwhile, filed his candidacy for Batangas 6th district representative, the position previously held by his father, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.

The three political hopefuls were accompanied by Ralph and actress Jessy Mendiola, Manzano’s wife, at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Batangas Provincial Capitol.

Prior to filing their COCs, the Santos-Manzano-Recto family met with their supporters at the Lipa City Hall. Also with them at the gathering were Lipa Mayor Eric Africa – who is seeking re-election – and actress Alex Gonzaga’s husband, Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada, who is running for vice mayor.

In a July interview with Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manzano hinted at running for public office this year.

“Each of us has the obligation to serve. In what capacity? This depends on what is given to us by God, it depends on the cards that’ve been dealt us,” he said. “Have I ever said ‘yes’ to politics before? Not yet, but you shouldn’t be surprised if I agree to it this year.”

“I’m very much open to politics. If I run, it would have to be for public service,” he noted. “I’ve received a lot of offers for different government positions. I take that as a compliment.”