A new political alliance is gaining momentum in the upcoming 2025 elections, as four councilor hopefuls—Neil Coleta, Tutuy Perez, Arnel Del Rosario, and Vladimir Maliksi—band together under the name “F4” or “Forward 4.”
The group aims to bring a fresh, dynamic approach to governance, with each candidate leveraging their expertise in different fields to help improve the city’s public services.
Neil Coleta. Widely recognized for his work in television and film, actor Neil Coleta is stepping into politics to fulfill his long-time desire to serve the people of Dasmariñas.
“Matagal ko na itong pinag-iisipan at gusto gawin. Finally, ito na siguro ang sign na hinihingi ko kay God. Gusto ko talaga tumulong sa mga kababayan ko sa Dasmariñas,” Coleta shared.
While entering politics, Coleta reassured his supporters that he is not turning his back on showbiz, revealing that he personally sought permission from Coco Martin before running for office.
Despite having no formal political background, Coleta believes that his advocacy-driven mindset and commitment to community service will guide him in making meaningful contributions to the city.
Tutuy Perez. A long-time sports organizer and youth mentor, Tutuy Perez is running for councilor with a strong focus on youth development, education, and community-building programs.
Perez founded Ballers of Dasmariñas, a recognized sports organization in Cavite that provides training opportunities for aspiring athletes and has been an accredited partner of the provincial government in various sports tournaments.
“Meron po akong NGO for 10 years. We help basketball players from all ages. Our primary goal is to assist young athletes, especially those from struggling communities,” Perez explained.
Beyond sports, Perez has experience in corporate and legal affairs, previously working as a paralegal for major companies like Meralco and Smart Communications before deciding to enter public service.
Arnel Del Rosario. For Arnel Del Rosario, public service is about empowerment, not dependency. A Born-Again Christian and entrepreneur, he believes that the best way to help people is to teach them how to sustain themselves economically.
“Gusto kong turuan ang mga kababayan ko maghanapbuhay at maging stable sa kanilang pangkabuhayan. Hindi dapat umasa lang sa mga politiko,” he stated.
Del Rosario grew up in a relocation site, where he witnessed firsthand the struggles of impoverished communities. His goal is to implement livelihood programs that will help residents become self-sufficient.
“Nakita ko paano ang hirap ng mga kababayan natin. Hindi lang sa Dasmariñas, kundi sa iba pang lugar. Ang mahalaga ay makita at maramdaman natin ang hirap ng buhay para matulungan sila nang tunay,” he added.
Unlike traditional politicians, Del Rosario prefers to be known as a public servant, focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term relief.
Vladimir Maliksi. As a long-time barangay kagawad, Vladimir Maliksi is no stranger to public service. Coming from a family of well-known politicians, including former Cavite Governor Ayong Maliksi and former Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, he is determined to continue their legacy while also introducing new priorities.
His primary advocacy is mental health awareness, which he believes has been largely overlooked in Dasmariñas.
“Sa Dasmariñas po, walang mental health programs. Marami ang hindi naiintindihan ang psychiatric problems ng iba—bakit may nagpapakamatay, bakit may nagsu-suicide,” Maliksi explained.
His advocacy is deeply personal, as his own wife has struggled with anxiety. This experience has fueled his mission to push for better mental health programs in the city.
“Isa ito sa pinaka-gustong isulong ko sa Dasmariñas. Kailangan natin bigyan ng pansin ang mental health para sa kapakanan ng ating kababayan,” he emphasized.
Despite coming from different backgrounds, the Forward 4 candidates share a common vision: to serve Dasmariñas with integrity, efficiency, and dedication.
Their collective expertise in entertainment, sports, business, and governance allows them to offer well-rounded leadership that addresses a broad range of issues affecting their constituents.
As the 2025 elections approach, Coleta, Perez, Del Rosario, and Maliksi remain committed to their campaign promises, hoping to earn the trust of the people and secure a seat in the Dasmariñas City Council.
With a mix of fresh perspectives and community-driven leadership, the Forward 4 candidates may just be the new wave of public servants the city needs.
