ATTY. Jordan Pizarras has emerged as a serious contender in the race for Bohol’s 1st District congressional seat, after a dramatic 16-point rise in the latest Holy Name University (HNU) survey placed him in a statistical tie with veteran politicians Rep. Edgar Chatto and former Tagbilaran City Mayor John Geesnell “Baba” Yap.
The survey, conducted from April 18 to May 4, 2025, shows both Chatto and Yap with 35% of voter preference, while Pizarras surged to 25%, significantly narrowing the gap. The latest numbers mark a turning point in the race, especially as Yap reportedly dropped by 15 points from previous polling figures.
Atty. Pizarras, a first-time candidate with over four decades of litigation experience and no record of corruption, is now seen as a clean, credible, and compelling alternative to traditional politicians.
His rise has been further bolstered by his adoption as a guest candidate by PDP–Laban, the political party of former President Rodrigo Duterte—signaling strong national support behind his grassroots campaign.
His no vote-buying campaign is also gaining traction, drawing support from a wide cross-section of Boholanos who are eager for genuine change and principled leadership.
“I am confident that Boholanos will vote according to their conscience this Monday,” said Pizarras. “This surge in the survey is proof that people are responding to our message of honest, no-nonsense public service.”
Running under the Aksyon Demokratiko banner, Pizarras has steadily built his platform on practical reforms such as motorcycle registration amnesty, improved rural connectivity through free public Wi-Fi, and the establishment of agricultural high schools to empower young farmers.
He has branded himself as “Tigpanalipud sa mga Bol-anon” (Defender of the Boholanos), a title that has gained traction especially among undecided and independent voters. In contrast, Baba Yap is currently facing a disqualification case filed with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), which has cast a shadow over his campaign in the final stretch. (PR)
