Kampi-One Cebu proclaims bets in Tabuelan

The opposition candidates in Tabuelan town got the support of the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino-One Cebu party of Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia in their drive to dethrone the Gerona clan, which has been in power for the past 20 years, in the May 14 elections.

Vice Governor Gregorio Sanchez Jr. yesterday proclaimed the group of incumbent councilor and mayoralty aspirant Zito "Titing" Gallo as official candidates of Kampi-One Cebu party in the town.

Former Provincial Board members Benhur Salimbangon and Rebumafil Holganza Jr., the candidates of the administration party for congressman and board member respectively, witnessed the proclamation.

Gallo and Councilors Flordeliz "Bebe" Velayo and Malyn Paradero, who are on their third and last term, used to be with the Geronas, who are known allies of the Martinezes in the fourth district.

In 1998 and 2001 elections, they were allied with then mayor Rex Gerona, who was replaced by his brother, Raul, in 2004 elections.

This coming elections, Gallo will run against former mayor Casiano Gerona, the father of Rex and Raul, while Velayo will face Rex for the vice mayoralty post.

Paradero is the opposition’s campaign manager.

Salimbangon said after he announced his bid for Congress, his group was able to organize the opposition candidates against the Geronas.

Former mayor Juan "Johnny" Menchavez lost over 1,000 votes to Rex for mayor in the 2001 elections, while Poch Lamug lost at least 2,000 votes to Raul in the 2004 elections. Both Menchavez and Lamug are now running for the municipal council.

Menchavez, who was once the vice mayor of the town, has been with the opposition for the past 20 years.

Believing in the leadership of Garcia, Gallo said the people of Tabuelan have realized that the Geronas are not looking after their welfare.

Both Menchavez and Lamug expressed confidence to win in the elections. Other opposition candidates for councilors are Jesus "Jesse" Ruelo, Florito Luyao, Diomedes "Joe" Lumbab, Juan "Jan" Banquicio, Richard "Reboy" Sido and Salvador Pasaylo. — Gregg M. Rubio/LPM