Opposition wants Cuenco to run for mayor in 2010

CEBU - The opposition wants Tony Cuenco for mayor in 2010.

This is what the opposition in Cebu City is mulling after the congressman representing the South District fell from the graces of the ruling Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK) headed by Mayor Tomas Osmeña.

Raymund Garcia, a son of former mayor Alvin Garcia, who ran for the city’s second top elective post but lost to Vice Mayor Michael Rama, said the opposition leaders in Cebu City are hoping Cuenco would accept their offer.

“Nalipay kaayo mi aning maong development,” the young Garcia said when he was interviewed over radio station dyLA yesterday afternoon.

Cuenco’s exit from the ruling party has also been welcomed by members of the BOPK.

Cuenco has however announced that he is planning to seek a diplomatic post after he completes his third straight term in 2010. 

He is eyeing to be ambassador to New Zealand or any European country.

Asking to remain anonymous, some city officials said that they are behind the mayor’s decision on Cuenco.

“Kon wala pa si mayor Tom, tingali’g napilde na unta na si Tony ni Jonathan Guardo,” one of the councilors from the south district said.

In yesterday’s press conference, Osmeña said “I’m not in a mood to go to a combat if one of my fellow soldiers has a tendency of backing off even before the war starts.”

Another councilor from the north district said the mayor could not be blamed if he has some sentiments against Cuenco, who abandoned their group and did not help his leaders during the campaign period for the October 29, 2007 barangay elections.

“Layo ra g’yod na si Cuenco ni Del Mar nga dili motalikud og mga barangay leader. Si Del Mar bisan human na ang eleksyon motabang gihapon,” the councilor said, referring to North District Rep. Raul del Mar, whose term of office will also end on 2010.

Osmeña’s misunderstanding with Cuenco started when the congressman went abroad during the last barangay elections without helping the BOPK candidates in his district. — Rene U. Borromeo/NLQ (THE FREEMAN)