SAME LEADERS. The Samar provincial capitol in Catbalogan City, Samar. More members of political families won in this year's elections.(Photo courtesy of Heritage Conservation Society) TACLOBAN CITY - This year's elections saw more members of political families in Samar province beating their opponents. For the Tan family, the number of their clan members holding elective posts has doubled. Incumbent 2nd district Rep. Sharee Ann Tan succeeded in her attempt to swap posts with his younger brother, Reynolds Michael, the current governor. This is Sharee Ann's return to the provincial government after serving as governor from 2010 to 2019. She defeated Gemma Zosa, the outgoing mayor of Santa Margarita town. Their uncle, Arnold Tan, will be the new vice governor of the province after defeating Board Member Alma Uy. In Samar's 1st District, this is the first time for the Tan family to win in the congressional race after failed attempts in past elections. Sharee Ann's younger brother, Stephen James won the congressional race against incumbent Rep. Edgar Mary Sarmiento. Stephen James served as vice governor for six years until 2019. Their party-mates in Calbayog, a city controlled by allies of Sarmiento, also won the mayoralty and vice mayoralty posts. Meanwhile, in Eastern Samar, Ralph Vincent, the son of Governor Ben Evardone won a seat in the Sulat town council. He is the second family member to join politics. Evardone won another term as governor, the post he held since 2019. In Northern Samar, incumbent Governor Edwin Ongchuan succeeded in his reelection bid. His cousin, Harris, a former mayor will be the new representative of the 2nd district, replacing his uncle, Jose. (PNA) }