BBM’s party endorses Cebu City mayoral bet Ruiz

Local

FORMER Bureau of Customs (BOC) commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz secured the endorsement of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the ruling party of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., strengthening his bid for Cebu City mayor.

Thousands of supporters gathered on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the “Bag-o Na Pud! A Call-for-Change Movement” rally along N. Bacalso Street, where PFP National President Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. announced the endorsement.

In his speech, Tamayo said Ruiz is the most capable leader to push for change in Cebu City. He emphasized that Ruiz’s experience in law enforcement and public service aligns with the party’s principles of strong and decisive leadership.

“Cebu City deserves a leader who does not just make promises but delivers results. Yogi Ruiz has the discipline, the experience, and the vision to transform this city into a model of progress and good governance,” Tamayo said.

Running under Partido Cebuano, Ruiz positions himself as an alternative to the city’s entrenched political families.

During the event, he criticized traditional politicians for failing to address the city’s persistent issues.

Ruiz said the city "stands at a crossroads, with traditional politics dominating for years while many pressing problems remain unresolved."

“Today, we take a stand and say ‘Bag-o na pud!’ It’s time for a leadership that truly listens and delivers,” Ruiz said.

He said that it is time to take a stand and call for change.

The movement has gained support from vendors, students, workers, women, seniors, and entrepreneurs, all advocating for governance that prioritizes public welfare over political interests.

As a first-time candidate, Ruiz previously served as regional director for the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Central Visayas and later led the BOC, where he reported record-breaking revenue collections of P800 billion.

He said his law enforcement background equips him to address the city’s concerns, including traffic congestion, waste management, and public safety.

Ruiz is going up against Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, Councilor Nestor Archival, and former Michael Rama.

Ruiz has framed his campaign as a challenge to political dynasties, urging Cebu City voters to consider how other urban centers progressed after electing fresh leadership.

Ruiz cited Manila and Pasig City as examples of cities that progressed after electing new mayors and encouraged Cebu City to follow the same path.(MyTVCebu)