Writer and journalist Jerry Gracio has formally announced his candidacy for mayor of Valenzuela City, setting up a challenge against incumbent Mayor Wes Gatchalian.
In a Facebook post on Friday, March 20, Gracio said the city could achieve greater progress under new leadership, pointing to ongoing issues such as potholes, traffic congestion, and flooding.
“Hindi lang gaganda, vovongga ang Valenzuela kapag napalitan si Wes Gatchalian. Dahil dito, pormal kong idinedeklara ang aking kandidatura sa pagka-Mayor,” Gracio declared.
Gracio acknowledged his lack of financial resources, political machinery, and traditional power, but said he intends to run a people-driven campaign with support from ordinary citizens.
“Wala akong pera, wala akong makinarya, wala akong kapangyarihan. Pero kaya kong patakbuhin ang City Hall kasama ang taumbayan, lalo na ang kabataan, lalo na ang mga manggagawa na bumubuo sa kalakhang bahagi ng ating Lungsod,” he said.
He also left open the possibility of withdrawing from the race if a credible alternative candidate emerges—one not tied to traditional politics or political dynasties—or if the incumbent acknowledges shortcomings and issues an apology.
“Kung hindi, tuloy ang laban. Samahan ninyo kami para sa VVV: Vonggang Vonggang Valenzuela!” he added.
Gracio’s announcement comes amid his recent public criticism following an incident involving violence against his brother in a Valenzuela condominium.
For more than two decades, the Gatchalian family has maintained a strong political presence in the city. Senator Win Gatchalian served as mayor from 2004 to 2013, followed by Rex Gatchalian from 2013 to 2022, and now Wes Gatchalian, who currently holds the post. All three have also represented Valenzuela’s first district in Congress, a seat now held by their brother Kenneth Gatchalian.
Win Gatchalian is currently serving his second term in the Senate, while Rex Gatchalian heads the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).