His opponent is Anne Gordon, the former Vice-Governor of Zambales. Gordon is married to the former Olongapo Mayor, James "Bong" Gordon Jr. She is running under the banner of Lakas–CMD.
On November 29, 2018, Paulino withdrew his certificate of candidacy and was replaced by his son Atty. Rolen Paulino Jr. According to Mayor Paulino, his decision was due to the current suspension order and subsequent case filed against him.