BACOLOD City – Will lawyer Caesar Distrito, former councilor and an ally of reelectionist Mayor Evelio Leonardia, say yes to becoming the running mate of billionaire businessman and Leonardia challenger Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez?
No word yet from Distrito, as of press time.
Benitez is a former congressman of the 3rd District of Negros Occidental. He is also the provincial head of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban).
“I am seriously thinking about it. I will consult my political leaders and supporters especially in Barangay Singcang-Airport and Magsungay, and will also pray and seek divine guidance…whether to run as vice mayor or will just seek (a fourth) term as Councilor,” Distrito wrote on Facebook.
If Distrito runs for vice mayor, his sure opponent is incumbent El Cid Familiaran, Leonardia’s running mate for two terms already since 2016 under the local political alliance Grupo Progreso.
When asked by Panay News for his reaction, Familiaran curtly replied, “good luck.”
On the other hand, Bacolod City’s Rep. Greg Gasataya would seek reelection.
But which group he will be joining? Leonardia’s or Benitez’s?
“I am not taking sides. I will run as neutral,” he added. “I will run as the official congressional candidate of the Nationalist People’s Coalition.”
Gasataya explained the decision was difficult to make.
“Leonardia and Benitez are my maninoys during my wedding. Both are significant to my personal and political journey,” said Gasataya.
Gasataya will seek reelection for a third consecutive and final term./PN