Winning an election is only the beginning. It may be tough, but it’s often the easier part, especially if you genuinely care about serving people. Once the campaign is over, the real work starts: leading, making choices, and solving problems. That’s when the public starts watching and expects results.
For Alfred Vargas, that reality is clear. After securing another win in Quezon City’s 5th District, he didn’t waste time claiming all the credit. Instead, he chose to focus on the work ahead with education as his top priority.
Vargas, a former actor who has spent years in both politics and entertainment, has seen how cruel public life can be. He’s dealt with fake news, character assassination, and the pressure of public opinion.
Yet, the moment his and his brother PM Vargas’ wins were confirmed, he did something not all politicians would: he shared the moment.
and PM Vargas (right) celebrate their proclamation
In a social media post set to Queen’s “We Are the Champions,” the 45-year-old Vargas showed a glimpse of his gratitude to voters, to his family, and to the community who stood by him.
“We are the champions, my friend… And we’ll keep on fighting ‘til the end,” he wrote on Instagram. The post included campaign footage and their proclamation alongside Mayor Joy Belmonte.
To start off, he made a public promise to prioritize educational assistance to every student in his district. He is now preparing to launch “Alagang Vargas Scholarship Program 2.0” this July.
The goal is simple: one scholar per family in Novaliches. No grade requirements, just proof that the student is continuing their education.
More than 20,000 students have already finished their studies under his earlier programs, with many now working as accountants, engineers, nurses, and even government employees.
“This scholarship is for elementary, high school, and college levels, and there is no grade requirement. Basta pasado ka, pasado ka na rin sa program. The scholarship will continue until the student graduates from college,” was Vargas’s post-election commitment to students.
15-year journey
in public service
Some may raise their eyebrows at his messaging—whether it’s song lyrics, hashtags, or public posts—but the results speak louder. His projects have remained focused and closely aligned with the needs of his district. That’s why his support hasn’t faded; in fact, it has grown over time.
“Sa gitna ng napakaraming paninira, fake news, kataksilan, kasinungalingan at pandaraya, nanatili kayong tapat at totoo at nanindigan para sa prinsipyo at tunay na serbisyo,” Vargas shared. “Inilaban ninyo kami kahit mahirap. Sinamahan niyo kami hanggang dulo.”
There’s also the quiet cost of public service: time away from family. Thus, Vargas thanked his wife and children for their patience and sacrifice during the campaign.
“My family has sacrificed so much to support me these last 15 years in public service,” he stated. “So much of my time was spent serving others, and sometimes, at the expense of my time with my family. But they understood me all the way and knew how much passion I had in trying to effect positive change.”
Vargas considers this second term a chance to do more and to do better.