The New Face of Infanta: How a Millennial Strategist Dismantled a 33-Year Political Machinery

A new chapter has been written in the political history of Infanta, Quezon — and at its center is the unexpected rise of the youngest mayor ever elected in the town: Lord Arnel “L.A.” Ruanto. A millennial. A strategist. A former student activist. Ruanto didn’t just win the mayoralty race — he upended a 33-year-old political dynasty in its own stronghold.

At just 36 years old, Ruanto led a campaign grounded in data, compassion, and innovation. He defeated the town’s political matriarch, Filipina Grace America, whose name had been synonymous with power in Infanta for more than three decades. Not only did her chosen mayoral candidate lose — she herself failed in her bid to become vice mayor.

The architect behind this political upset? None other than Ruanto himself, armed with strategy and insights from his own political consultancy firm, Grassroots Analytics Philippines (GRAPH). Through GRAPH, he ran a data-driven, ethical, and community-centered campaign that challenged traditional politics head-on.

It Started With a Simple Question

Ruanto’s journey into public service began in 2009 as a graduating student and activist at PUP Manila. A conversation with former Isabela Governor Grace Padaca during a forum left a lasting impression: “If all the good people keep thinking politics is dirty, then no good people will want to lead.”

Inspired by this, Ruanto ran for councilor in 2010 — and won at the young age of 21. He drew on his background in psychology and leadership to build trust and lead with empathy.

Lessons From Defeat

However, the road was far from smooth. In 2013, despite good performance, he barely made it to the council — ranking eighth. It was then he realized that hard work alone wasn’t enough. People had to feel genuine care.

That turning point led him to study the science and art of campaigning. He read books, observed political operations, and joined both local and international consultancy programs. In 2017, Ruanto was selected as a U.S. State Department Professional Fellow, where he trained under Steven Schale, the campaign director of former U.S. President Barack Obama.

From this experience, he founded GRAPH and CHARTS — organizations aimed at making Philippine campaigns more scientific, systematic, and ethical.

“Lingap Agad”: Service With Heart

Under his signature program “Lingap Agad” (Immediate Care), Ruanto demonstrated what proactive, humane leadership could look like. Relief goods were prepositioned before storms hit. Evacuation efforts were underway as the rain poured. Post-disaster response was swift and coordinated.

Together with his running mate, Councilor Bro. Mannie America, their party — STAN Q — achieved a sweeping victory, securing 6 out of 8 council seats. This was not just a campaign; it was a movement rooted in people, data, and purpose.

Not Everyone Gets In

Ruanto emphasized that his firm did not accept just any political client. “We reject candidates with bad records. Surveys aren’t just to predict winners — they help identify problems and how to fix them,” he said.

He also redefined grassroots campaigning. One standout tactic was the KampanyaOke — a door-to-door karaoke serenade for rural communities. The initiative, which first gained traction in 2016, went viral during the 2022 campaign of VP Leni Robredo.

Recognition at Home and Abroad

Ruanto’s impact goes beyond local politics. As a champion of the Kaya Natin Movement for Good Governance, he represented the Philippines at international platforms — from Taiwan’s Yushan Forum to the World Youth Alliance in New York, Gummersbach in Germany, and The Hague in the Netherlands. In 2024, he was honored as Vice Mayor of the Year and named one of the Ten Outstanding Movers of the Philippines.

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A New Era for Infanta

After decades of traditional politics, Infanta is now led by a new generation of leadership. Mayor-elect L.A. Ruanto’s victory marks not just a personal milestone — but a collective win for those who believe in good governance, data-driven policy, and people-first leadership.

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