Cebu City's 2025 Mayoral Race: A Statistical Analysis of Candidates' Digital Footprints

1. About Cebu City

Cebu City, located in the province of Cebu within the Central Visayas region, is a significant urban center in the Philippines. As of 2025, the city's population is estimated at approximately 1,062,000 residents. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with Cebuano as the predominant dialect. In the 2022 elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) recorded a substantial number of registered voters, reflecting the city's vibrant political engagement.

2. Demographics

Based on available data and projections for 2025, the generational breakdown of Cebu City's population is as follows:

Note: Percentages are assumptions based on typical urban demographics in the Philippines.

3. Social Media & Digital Presence

Analyzing the digital footprints of each candidate during the specified period:

Note: Percentages are based on combined activity, reach, and engagement across platforms.

4. Online Dominance

Based on the data gathered, the candidates rank as follows:

Online Presence Ranking:

1. Raymond Alvin Garcia
2. Michael Rama
3. Yogi Filemon Ruiz
4. Nestor Archival Sr.

Online Popularity Ranking:

1. Raymond Alvin Garcia
2. Michael Rama
3. Yogi Filemon Ruiz
4. Nestor Archival Sr.

Online Approval Rating Ranking:

1. Raymond Alvin Garcia
2. Michael Rama
3. Yogi Filemon Ruiz
4. Nestor Archival Sr.

5. Hashtags and Mentions

Note: Percentages represent the share of total online mentions and hashtags for each candidate.

6. Final Summary

Based on the data gathered:

• Winner Based on Social and Online Media Presence: Raymond Alvin Garcia
• Winner Based on Appeal with People: Raymond Alvin Garcia
• If the Election Were Held Now, Likely Winner: Raymond Alvin Garcia

7. Online Voter Turnout Assumption

Translating online engagement into potential votes:

Note: These are assumptions based on online presence and may not reflect actual voter behavior.

Part 2: Candidate Analysis

Michael Rama

Pros:

• Experienced political figure with prior mayoral tenure.
• Established name recognition in Cebu City.

Cons:

• Recent legal challenges leading to dismissal from office.
• Potential erosion of public trust due to controversies.

SWOT Analysis:

• Strengths: Deep-rooted political connections; familiarity with city governance.
• Weaknesses: Legal issues may overshadow campaign efforts.
• Opportunities: Leveraging past achievements to regain public support.
• Threats: Competitors may capitalize on his legal troubles.

Yogi Filemon Ruiz

Pros:

• Background in customs administration, highlighting anti-corruption stance.
• Fresh face in local politics, potentially appealing to reform-minded voters.

Cons:

• Limited political experience in elective positions.
• Lower name recognition compared to seasoned politicians.

SWOT Analysis:

• Strengths: Perceived integrity and commitment to transparency.
• Weaknesses: Lack of established political network in Cebu City.
• Opportunities: Attracting reformist voters.
• Threats: Stronger, well-entrenched candidates may overshadow his campaign.

Raymond Alvin Garcia

Pros:

• Strong political presence as a city councilor.
• Highly active in both mainstream and online media.

Cons:

• Possible voter concerns about traditional political affiliations.
• May face opposition from voters seeking fresh leadership.

SWOT Analysis:

• Strengths: Solid political connections and city council experience.
• Weaknesses: May struggle to capture reformist or independent voters.
• Opportunities: Leveraging strong digital presence to reach younger voters.
• Threats: Criticism of traditional political affiliations could impact appeal.

Nestor Archival Sr.

Pros:

• Respected city councilor with a record of public service.
• Stance on progressive policies may attract younger voters.

Cons:

• Lower online presence and engagement.
• Lesser mainstream media coverage compared to rivals.

SWOT Analysis:

• Strengths: Established governance background and policy expertise.
• Weaknesses: Struggles with digital outreach and online voter engagement.
• Opportunities: Targeting grassroots campaigns to counter digital disadvantages.
• Threats: Might not gain enough traction against more prominent candidates.

Candidate Point-Based Analysis:

Final Conclusion:

Based on digital presence, mainstream media coverage, and overall candidate strengths, Raymond Alvin Garcia leads the race, followed closely by Michael Rama. Yogi Filemon Ruiz and Nestor Archival Sr. will need stronger digital campaigns to gain momentum.

Disclaimer

The information provided is based on publicly available data and is intended solely for informational purposes. It is not designed to mislead or be used for any election-related purposes. Please note that the data may be inaccurate. This information should not be used to discourage any candidate but rather to offer insights that could enhance campaign strategies. It is intended for positive and constructive use only.

Do you want us to run a free analysis of your area? Please contact us.

About

This information is produced by broadcast journalist Roy Bato and his team, who are dedicated to studying the evolving landscape, behaviors, patterns, and psychology of the upcoming 2025 elections. Their focus includes the impact of new technology and generational divides, examining how these factors influence the forthcoming election and how electoral processes have transformed over time.

Roy Bato provides free and special consulting services on how to improve your digital presence and connecting various generations for more information 0917 8000 694

About Roy Bato 

Roy Bato has been a broadcast journalist for 29 years and owns a media company. He has extensive experience in the country's political dynamics. In addition, he owns a 13 year old software outfit and is a strong advocate for digital transformation. Roy Bato remains focused on the ever-evolving landscape of media, human behavior, and technology.

You may also visit his website and social media channels for tips, knowledge and other learnings.