AS the countdown to the 2025 midterm elections draws close, significant political endorsements are making headlines in Cagayan de Oro.
Incumbent Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy and his son, Carmen Barangay Chair Rainier Joaquin ‘Kapkik’ Uy, have secured the support of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for their respective bids for mayor and 1st District representative.
Although the Iglesia ni Cristo has not officially issued a public statement regarding their endorsement, reliable sources within the City’s Gender and Development (GAD) Office have confirmed the church's backing of the Uy bids.
City GAD Office overseer Sol Mosqueda disclosed that the church’s support is a significant boost for the Uy campaign, especially amid a highly competitive electoral race.
“Yes, it's confirmed, just today (May 8),” said Mosquida.
In response to the endorsement, Mayor Uy expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Iglesia ni Cristo. In a message shared via social media, Mayot Uy stated:
“Isang taos-pusong pasasalamat ang nais kong iparating sa inyo sa inyong walang sawang suporta at pagtitiwala sa akin bilang Punong Lungsod ng Cagayan de Oro. Sa bawat hakbang ng ating paglilingkod sa bayan, dama ko ang inyong dasal, gabay, at pagkakaisa sa adhikaing mapabuti ang buhay ng bawat Kagay-anon.”
He further assured the INC and the public of his continued dedication to service:
“Bilang tugon sa inyong tiwala, pinapangako ko na patuloy akong maglilingkod nang may malasakit, katapatan, at buong pusong dedikasyon. Hindi po tayo titigil hangga’t hindi natin naipapatupad ang mga programang tunay na magbibigay ng ginhawa, kaunlaran, at kapayapaan sa ating lungsod.”
Uy also took the opportunity to thank the Iglesia ni Cristo for their prayers and support, emphasizing their shared goal of a future for Cagayan de Oro:
“Muli, maraming salamat sa Iglesia Ni Cristo sa inyong patuloy na panalangin at suporta. Kaisa po kayo ng pamahalaang lungsod sa pagtupad ng isang mas maliwanag na bukas para sa ating lahat.”
As the May 12 elections approach, political analysts suggest that the Iglesia ni Cristo’s endorsement could pivot the election, swaying voters in favor of the Uys’ bid.
