Congressman Arnan Panaligan of Oriental Mindoro’s First District is set to serve a second term unopposed after no challengers filed certificates of candidacy before the deadline today, October 8, 2024.

The incumbent representative acknowledged this development not as a personal victory but as a renewed mandate to serve.

“I do not consider it as a personal accomplishment that needs to be celebrated but as an imposition of a heavy burden and responsibility to serve the people not only of the First District of Oriental Mindoro but the Filipino people in general,” Panaligan said in a social media statement.

The congressman pledged to intensify his legislative efforts in his second term, citing his commitment to crafting “meaningful laws” and bringing programs and services to his district.

“I pledge to do my utmost as a lawmaker with the highest degree of integrity, honesty and sense of duty to the people,” he said, adding that he would continue to advocate for national and humanitarian causes in Congress.

Drawing from biblical inspiration, Panaligan referenced Luke 12:48, stating “To whom much is given, much is required and as more things are added to him, more will be asked of him,” to underscore the weight of his responsibilities.

The congressman also expressed gratitude to his constituents for their continued trust and support, while requesting prayers for divine guidance in his upcoming term.

“Without God’s help I will not succeed. With God’s help I will not fail,” Panaligan concluded.

The filing of candidacies for the 2025 elections officially closed at 5:00 PM on October 8, 2024.