UNDOUBTEDLY, Pampanga is one among the few vote-rich provinces in the country when we talk about elections of those running for national positions. The province is a good bailiwick that may give great mileage to an aspirant against his opponents.
During presidential elections when we elect the highest leader of the land, along with the vice president and the senators, Pampanga is often visited by various candidates who are wooing for the Kapampangan votes. Those who have ancestors, relatives whether by blood or by affinity, often associate themselves with Pampanga to somehow make voters feel that the candidate belongs to them.
Because of the "solid votes" of Pampanga, candidates for national positions are regular "visitors" of the province, especially during the election season. Further, the proximity of Pampanga to Metro Manila where many national-level politicians are actually based is another good reason why the politicos can easily hop in our province.
Many Kapampangans are solid voters. We mean, when an aspirant is being supported in Pampanga, we can often expect a large margin of votes over others. Fanaticism also prevails to some.
As for surveys, I heard that Pampanga has more than 1 million voters. Having a million voters on hand is a great leap towards winning. It's hard to cope with a million voters tucked in the sleeves of a contender.
Recently, former Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (BBM) visited the province. His visit coincided with the natal day celebration of Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia "Nanay" Pineda. It's a good opportunity for BBM to solicit support since local politicians and leaders are there during the special day of Nanay.
Aling Leni also visited the province some weeks ago. She painted the town pink as she was welcomed by the supporters of the former yellow group. They shifted to pink in support of the current Vice President.
Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno is the latest among our visitors. He went to the provincial capitol to seek support from the ruling leaders at the capitol. Minus his dance steps, he wooed Kapampangans through his presence and his good looks. Those who have seen him personally cannot help to ask for selfie poses.
Pampanga, aside from sand, has its gold mines in votes. We see that many are exploring and digging the province for votes who are worth gold this election season. The number of visitors who are wannabees for national posts visiting the province is an indicator that we are indeed kingmakers.
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