On that dark evening, as we approached Barangay Malupa, you could already feel a special air of unity and warmth.
Even though we were tired from a long day of visits, every stop at someone's home felt like a new beginning, filled with hope.
When we entered the barangay, we were met with a happy surprise. Even though it was late, it felt like the whole community was celebrating. At every corner, residents gathered, children in red shirts, elderly folks, mothers with warm smiles and open arms.
They didn't mind the cold or the late hour. Instead, they came together to give us a heartfelt welcome.
Many offered snacks and drinks, simple puto, kutsinta, and sandwiches made by the families themselves. The cold drinks felt too special not to share with visitors and campaign volunteers.
Each home had its own story of gratitude. Kids handed over flowers and red balloons that they hung on posts and doors. These balloons felt like symbols of the fire still burning in the hearts of Malupa's people for their beloved leader.
From Malupa, we slowly made our way to Barangay Corazon de Jesus. Here, the night grew even more emotional.
As soon as we arrived, groups of senior citizens were there to greet us. When Mayor Andy got out of the vehicle, the elders lined up and hugged him tightly. These weren't casual hugs, they were filled with love, gratitude, and prayers. It felt like a long-awaited reunion.
At every corner we passed, there were snacks and drinks ready, puto, suman, and hot coffee. The whole barangay felt like it was hosting a festival, not just for one candidate, but for a community determined to rise again.
While shaking hands with the senior citizens, they shared stories with Mayor. Stories of the projects he had delivered, education programs for children, and promises he had kept that brought real change.
Many of the elders promised their continued support and offered their prayers. Mayor could feel the weight of their trust, so he took the time to really listen to their worries and hopes.
After the house-to-house visits, we headed to the covered court of Corazon de Jesus for the miting de avance. The place was packed with people from all over the barangay. Red flags waved, banners hung everywhere, and kids held red balloons.
When Mayor Andy arrived, he was met with cheers and applause.
Many ran up to shake his hand or take pictures. Every hug and handshake was proof of the genuine love the people of Corazon de Jesus had for him.
In his speech, Mayor Andy said:
"I will never forget you, and if you give me another chance, I promise to serve you with all my heart."
After the program in Corazon de Jesus, we went back to Malupa for their own miting de avance. Even though it was late, the covered court was still full.
The cheers were even louder, with shouts of Mayor's name echoing everywhere.
When Mayor arrived, he was once again greeted with cheers, endless hugs, kisses from senior citizens, and quiet prayers.
In his speech, he thanked everyone for their support and once again promised them honest and dedicated service.
That night, you could truly feel the unity and love in both barangays. In every hug, every word, and every shared snack, the people of Malupa and Corazon de Jesus showed that despite all the challenges, they remained loyal to their public servant.
And in Mayor Andy Lacson's heart, he carried all those promises, to serve wholeheartedly, and never abandon the people who trusted him.