The first day of the campaign period for local candidates in the May 2025 elections took on an unconventional approach as former vice president and now mayoral candidate Leni Robredo launched her bid with a rally filled with music and dancing on March 28, in Naga City.
Robredo, along with her slate under “An Bagong Team Naga,” gathered supporters in a kickoff event that resembled more of a festival than a traditional political rally.
Instead of delivering lengthy political speeches, the event was dominated by performances, with candidates dancing to their campaign jingles.
The energy of the rally reflected Robredo’s previous campaign style in the 2022 presidential elections, where her supporters widely used pink as their symbol.
Joining her onstage was her running mate for vice mayor, Gabby Bordado, along with candidates for councilor who each showcased their own dance routines. The performances lasted for more than two hours.
During her short address, Robredo acknowledged the efforts of the volunteers who organized the event. She emphasized that the campaign is not just about her or her team but about the people of Naga.
“Where have you seen a rally without political speeches? Only now, right? Do you know why? Because everything was planned by our volunteers. But we want you to feel that elections and campaigns are not about us—it’s about you, the people,” she said in Bicolano.
She also extended her gratitude to local officials, barangay captains, youth leaders, dancers, and performers who participated in the event. She highlighted the dedication of volunteers who stayed up late practicing and preparing for the rally.
Robredo then called on supporters to not only back her candidacy but also the entire “An Bagong Team Naga.” She urged them to carry the momentum into their communities and help spread their campaign’s message.
The event’s format stood out from traditional rallies, which are usually filled with speeches outlining platforms and promises. Instead, the kickoff focused on entertainment, making it a night of music and celebration rather than political discourse.
The following day, March 29, Robredo and her team continued their campaign with a motorcade that started in Barangay Liboton and ended in Barangay Concepcion Grande. This activity marked the beginning of their efforts to reach out to different communities across Naga City.
With an emphasis on engaging the public through performances and a more relaxed approach, Robredo’s campaign appears to be taking a different route in connecting with voters. Whether this strategy will translate into votes remains to be seen as the campaign season progresses.
Photo Courtesy: An Bagong Team Naga 2025