As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the political landscape across the country is stirring with notable developments. Batangas Province is no exception, of course, with its turn of poll-related events upping the excitement over the gubernatorial race to literal showbiz levels.
The significant figure at the center of this unfolding drama is none other than Kris Aquino. Yes, the "Queen of All Media" is very much the talk of the town across the Calabarzon region despite living oceans away, not only for her recurring health updates on social media but for her close ties with incumbent Vice Governor Mark Leviste.
VG Mark as he is fondly called by his constituents just hinted at a potential gubernatorial bid, posting back-to-back photos with Governor Dodo Mandanas, captioned, "sealed with a handshake."
With Mandanas on his final term [yes, he's the 83-year-old governor who married 32-year-old lawyer Angelica Chua over the summer], the possibility of Leviste switching posts with him is gaining traction. Obviously, what adds an extra layer of intrigue to this political narrative is Aquino's potential role in Leviste's political journey.
While Mandanas appears supportive of Leviste's possible candidacy, it is Aquino's influence and presence that could play a pivotal role in VG Leviste's rise to the top of Batangas' leadership.
In an interview shared with The Manila Times Entertainment, Leviste remained composed when asked about her possible support for his gubernatorial run.
Refusing to answer the question with a yes or no, he simply said, "Kris inspires me," then broke into a wide smile. "She continues to motivate me in my work as a public servant. Politics is not new to her."
Those who have been following Leviste on social media should know that his admiration for the daughter and sister of two former presidents isn't merely professional. Often visiting the long-absent host and actress in Los Angeles where she continues to get treatment for her auto immune disease, Leviste has openly expressed his desire to marry Aquino.
He was once quoted to say, "I see myself spending the rest of my life with her and taking care of her. I am very sure the people of Batangas are excited to have Kris as a future first lady if given the chance."
A widower, Leviste has also been open about the strong bond his family has formed with Aquino in recent years.
"My children and family love Kris and her sons. We adore them and we are looking forward to being this one big, happy family one day."
Now, while the buzz is that local surveys have been showing Leviste as the top choice of Batangueños to replace Mandanas as governor, the big question remains whether VG Leviste's run will indeed bring Aquino back home.
So the question remains: will Filipinos see Kris Aquino back in the Philippines should Leviste declare his run for the Gubernatorial race? All eyes will definitely be Batangas if she does, and what a campaign that will surely make.
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