CEBU, Philippines - Rumors that Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Arturo Radaza is not in good shape continues to spread.
The incumbent mayor is running for a congressional seat representing the lone district of Lapu-Lapu City.
Radaza's rivals in politics and city residents continue to ask for his whereabouts since the mayor has not appeared at his office at city hall, at campaign rallies, and in “pulong-pulong” or meetings.
"Wala man gyud ko makakita niya. Kay bisan moadto mi sa iyang opisina, mo-ingon man iyang mga staff nga wala si mayor," a resident of Lapu-Lapu City who visited city hall recently, said.
It has also been alleged that Radaza had suffered a stroke.
Nacionalista Party congressional candidate Lito Ruiz and Liberal Party candidate for councilor Galicano Arriesgado said they do not wish the mayor ill but said he has the obligation to let the people know what his health condition is.
But his media bureau sent a text statement to media outlets saying Radaza is in good condition.
"Rumors ra gyud na. He is healthier than all opposition candidates combined," the statement read.
Ruiz, the archrival of Radaza in the congressional race, urged the mayor to retire from politics owing to his alleged poor health.
"Naa na'y mayor sa Lapu-Lapu nga na-suspenso. Kalain na unya nga naa na unya ta'y congressman nga gipatol sulod sa kongreso," Lito said, laughing off the press statement from Radaza daring his opponents to have their blood pressures taken.
"Among dawaton iyang hagit nga magpa-blood pressure. Pero mupakita kaha siya?" Lito said.
Former Punta Engaño barangay captain Angel Rodriguez, a supporter of mayoralty candidate Junard Chan, said his sources have told him that Radaza has not been reporting to his office.
Radaza walks with a limp, attributable to a vehicular accident in the early 90s.
Radaza has claimed that limping doesn't affect his capacity to serve as mayor and in campaigning for a congressional seat. (FREEMAN NEWS)