Business leader Orven Rabino filed his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for the gubernatorial race in Oriental Mindoro on Monday, October 7, marking the first official candidacy for the province’s top position in the 2025 elections.

Rabino, known for his “Serbisyo Ora Mismo” platform, will challenge incumbent Governor Bonz Dolor, setting up what political analysts predict will be a contentious race in the province.

The development comes amid ongoing power supply issues in Oriental Mindoro, which Rabino had focused in his initial statements to the press prior to today’s filing.

“After two terms in office, why does Oriental Mindoro still face the same electricity problems?” Rabino questioned, stressing the lack of power’s impact on Mindoro business investments and employment.

Political observers note that unlike the 2022 elections, where Governor Dolor faced opposition from most municipal mayors, the 2025 race could present a different endgame.

A major factor in the upcoming election is the congressional bid of current Vice Governor Ejay Falcon in the province’s 2nd District.

The filing of candidacies continues at the local COMELEC office, with more aspirants expected to formalize their bids today.

Last day of COC filing is set tomorrow, October 8, 2024, without extension, according to the COMELEC.