MANILA – The May 12, 2025, midterm elections delivered unexpected results, as several high-profile senatorial candidates who consistently led pre-election surveys failed to secure seats in the Senate.

Despite extensive campaigns across traditional and social media platforms, and significant expenditures on advertisements, notable figures such as Ben Tulfo, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Abby Binay, Benhur Abalos, Jimmy Bondoc, Manny Pacquiao, Phillip Salvador, Willie Revillame, Francis Tolentino, and Apollo Quiboloy did not make it to the so-called “Magic 12.”

As of the latest count, with 97.2% of election returns transmitted, the standings are as follows:

● Ben Tulfo: 13th place with 11,886,843 votes
● Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.: 14th place with 11,790,005 votes
● Abby Binay: 15th place with 11,569,979 votes
● Benhur Abalos: 16th place with 11,354,377 votes
● Jimmy Bondoc: 17th place with 10,357,616 votes
● Manny Pacquiao: 18th place with 10,208,474 votes
● Phillip Salvador: 19th place with 9,984,203 votes
● Willie Revillame: 22nd place with 8,414,769 votes
● Francis Tolentino: 25th place with 7,564,087 votes

Revilla and Tolentino are seeking reelection.

These results are particularly surprising given that many of these candidates were considered “winnables” in various surveys conducted months and even weeks before the elections.

In contrast, candidates like Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, who placed second and fifth respectively, have secured positions within the top 12, indicating a shift in voter preferences.

The unexpected outcomes suggest that voters may be seeking change, favoring candidates who offer fresh perspectives over established names. Analysts believe this could mark a significant shift in the Philippine political landscape, emphasizing the electorate’s desire for new leadership.

As the final votes are tallied, the political community watches closely to understand the implications of this electoral shift and what it means for future elections in the country.

📷 Facebook pages of Ben Tulfo, Bong Revilla, Manny Pacquiao, Philip Salvador, Willie Revillame, and Benhur Abalos