The 2025 Mayoral Bid of Mayor Mike Rama: 7 Things to Know

Michael “Mike” Rama, a seasoned figure in Cebu City politics, is once again in the spotlight as he seeks to reclaim the mayoralty in the 2025 elections. Despite facing legal challenges, Rama remains a prominent candidate.

Here are seven key insights into his political journey and current campaign:

A Political Legacy

Born on October 28, 1954, Mike Rama hails from a family with deep political roots. His grandfather, Don Vicente Rama, was a former mayor of Cebu City. The older Rama is recognized as the “Father of the Cebu City Charter”. Mike Rama began his political career as a city councilor in 1992, serving three consecutive terms until 2001.

Extensive Public Service

Rama has held various positions in Cebu City’s local government. He served as vice mayor from 2001 to 2010 and again from 2019 to 2021. He was elected mayor in 2010 and re-elected in 2013. After a hiatus, he assumed the mayoralty again in 2021 following the death of Mayor Edgardo Labella. He was re-elected in 2022.

Legal Challenges

In October 2024, the Office of the Ombudsman dismissed Rama from office and imposed a permanent ban from holding public office due to findings of nepotism and grave misconduct. However, the Supreme Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the Commission on Elections’ disqualification order, allowing Rama to remain on the ballot for the 2025 elections pending further review.

Determined Candidacy

Despite facing a number of legal challenges that could potentially hinder his candidacy, Rama has made it clear that he remains steadfast in his decision to seek the mayoral seat in the 2025 elections, demonstrating a firm resolve to push forward with his political plans regardless of the obstacles.

Vision for Cebu City

Mike Rama envisions transforming Cebu City into a “Singapore-like city with Melbourne features.” He emphasizes urban development, improved public services, and economic growth as key components of his platform.

Political Alliances

Running under Partido Barug, Rama has formed alliances with other local parties, including BagOng Sugbo, to strengthen his campaign for the 2025 elections.

Election Landscape

The 2025 mayoral race in Cebu City is highly competitive. Rama faces several opponents, including Raymond Alvin Garcia, Nestor Archival, Yogi Ruiz, and independent candidate Julieto Co.

As the election approaches, Mike Rama’s candidacy continues to generate significant attention, reflecting both his enduring influence in Cebu City politics and the complexities surrounding his legal battles.