Political prisoner joins fray, files COC for Argao council

Political prisoner Ricardo "Jigger" Geverola was allowed out of the military's Central Command stockade to file his candidacy for councilor in Argao town.

But before proceeding to the Commission on Election office in Argao, Geverola went to Camp Sotero Cabahug to undergo a drug test as one of the requirements for candidates with heavy escorts from the Central Command, provincial police and the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center.

The first political prisoner in the province to file candidacy for the May 14 elections, Geverola, 30, a native of barangay Gutlang, Argao, was detained at the Central Command after the request from the CPDRC. He is facing rebellion and arson charges in Danao City and Toledo City, respectively.

Geverola's wife, Ellisa, told The Freeman that the reason why he entered politics was the failure of Argao officials to address the poverty in the town.

"Nakita ni Jigger nga ang mga local officials diha sa Argao wala'y tingog ilabi na sa mga kabus ug ang padayong pag-abuso sa mga piniriso diha sa CPDRC," Ellisa said.

It is not clear how Geverola will campaign, but Ellisa said their lawyers would file a motion in court to allow her husband to campaign for just a day. She believes that their relatives, family and friends will support his candidacy.

Argao has more than 40,000 registered voters. - Garry B. Lao/LPM