Ogena Maintains Strong Lead in Koronadal Mayoral Race; Survey Shows Gumbao Struggling Despite Attacks

Incumbent Mayor Eliordo "Bebot" Ogena is holding a commanding lead in the race for city mayor, according to the latest local survey conducted one week into the official campaign period.

The survey results show Mayor Ogena with 59.8% support, while his challenger Kap Yan-Yan Gumbao lags behind at 36.2%. The remaining percentage is composed of undecided voters and those who opted not to disclose their preference.

Now on his final term, Mayor Ogena continues to enjoy the trust of a majority of Koronadaleños, largely due to his visible and impactful projects, consistent public service, and his strong backing from South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. and the administration party, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).

Despite a series of desperate attacks on social media and commentary from paid radio personalities targeting Mayor Ogena’s health and capabilities, survey data shows that these negative tactics have failed to sway public opinion. Koronadalenos remain firm in their support, recognizing Ogena’s proven track record and steady leadership.

Meanwhile, Gumbao’s campaign appears to be struggling to gain momentum. Analysts point out that his lack of significant accomplishments in public service, coupled with his alignment with controversial 2nd District Congressman Peter Miguel, may have further eroded his chances of winning.

Congressman Miguel, who has faced backlash for his role in the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte and his ties to political figures outside the province, has seen his influence wane—negatively affecting candidates associated with him, including Gumbao.

Governor Tamayo, on the other hand, continues to draw massive support across South Cotabato, with his advocacy for free education, free hospitalization, and good governance inspiring confidence among voters. His endorsement of Ogena is seen as a significant boost to the mayor's campaign.

Mayor Ogena during his State of the City Address called for unity, urging Koronadaleños to set aside politics and continue working together for the city’s development"

“𝙈𝙖𝙜𝙠𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙤, 𝙪𝙧𝙪𝙧𝙪𝙥𝙤𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙩𝙖 𝙜𝙞𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙣 𝙨𝙖 𝘽𝙖𝙜𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙆𝙤𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖𝙡 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖 𝙨𝙖 𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙤𝙮-𝙩𝙪𝙡𝙤𝙮 𝙣𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙜𝙤 𝙨𝙖 𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙨𝙤𝙙” he said.

With the election fast approaching, the numbers suggest that the people of Koronadal are leaning towards continuity, stability, and proven leadership over untested promises, and sincere service over political theatrics.