Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian endorses Camille Villar’s Senate bid

Senatorial candidate Camille Villar secured a major boost in her campaign after receiving a strong endorsement from Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian on April 14, 2025.

VALENZUELA CITY, Philippines — Senatorial candidate Camille Villar secured a major boost in her campaign after receiving a strong endorsement from Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian during her visit to the city on Monday morning.

The endorsement was made during a flag-raising ceremony held at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV), where Gatchalian highlighted Villar’s experience and dedication to public service, particularly her advocacy for youth and entrepreneurship.

“Age is not a hindrance to serve, even in high posts in government,” said Gatchalian, citing the rising presence of young leaders in the country’s political landscape.

“We’ve seen that in Congress, in the Cabinet, and now in the Senate,” he added.

Gatchalian and Villar worked together during the 18th Congress, where both served in the House of Representatives. The Valenzuela mayor praised Villar’s commitment to inclusive governance and her drive to champion key sectors of society.

“If given the chance to serve at the Senate, I believe she can continue to advance the welfare of our youth and entrepreneurs,” he said. “More than age, what matters is the heart to serve—and the Villars have consistently shown that.”

Addressing the students of PLV, Villar echoed Gatchalian’s message and called on the youth to be proactive in nation-building.

“It’s time for us—whether we are Gen Z, Gen X, or Millennials—to step up and be part of the solution,” Villar said. “It’s easy to observe and criticize, but for the country to truly progress, we all need to take part—young or old.”

Villar emphasized the value of education as a foundation for national development and encouraged students to persevere in the face of adversity.

“In life, challenges will come, and sometimes we think we’re too young or inexperienced. But we can overcome anything if we stay committed,” she added.

Villar also expressed gratitude to Gatchalian, PLV President Dr. Nedeña Torralba, Pastor Robert Reyes, and city and school officials for their warm welcome and support.

Her visit forms part of a broader campaign to connect with youth sectors and local leaders across the country, as she vies for a seat in the Senate in the upcoming national elections.