Atan, Mary Ann visit Pasil Fish Market

CEBU, Philippines - Opposition leaders Jonathan “Atan” Guardo and Lahug barangay captain Mary Ann de Los Santos yesterday made true their earlier announcement that both of them will visit different barangays to promote their “OUR City” advocacy.

Guardo and De Los Santos entered the muddy Pasil Fish Market and shook hands with the fish dealers and other persons, but they did not announce yet if they are running either for congressman or other elective positions.

There were some persons who shouted “Atan Na Ta!” the campaign slogan of Guardo when he ran for congressman of the city’s south district in the last 2007 local elections where he was defeated by Antonio Cuenco.

The officials of the Commission on Elections said Guardo and De Los Santos did not violate any election laws even if they have announced that they are running for certain elective positions.

When the two opposition leaders entered a small road going to the barangay hall, they were met by a small group of supporters who carried placards that read “Welcome Atan Guardo.”

“Bisan og unsay daganan ni Atan amo g’yod siya nga suportahan,” said a woman who was on hand to welcome him.

In a press conference held later at the Pasil barangay tanod headquarters, Guardo and De Los Santos said both of them are still not convinced yet to run for mayor and vice mayor, respectively.

Guardo and De Los Santos said they can still serve the constituents of Cebu City if they will be elected representatives of the city’s south and north districts, but said they can do more if they will be elected as mayor and vice mayor.

“Pagka karon wala pa g’yod mausab ang among hukom nga ang pagka kongresista maoy daganan, apan dili imposible nga modagan mi sa pagka mayor ug bise mayor,” Guardo said.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña earlier said Young was a city councilor for three straight terms and also a congressman, while De Los Santos is just a barangay captain.

Osmeña is expected to have a face-off with his former sports consultant in the next year’s elections if Guardo will push through with his plan to run as congressman in the south district. —Rene U. Borromeo/BRP (THE FREEMAN)